Former Boston Celtics Center Eric Montross has sadly passed away at the age of 52 after a battle with cancer.
“The family of Eric Montross (Laura, Sarah, Andrew, and Megan) is announcing that he passed away on Sunday, December 17, surrounded by loved ones at his home in Chapel Hill,” the family said in a statement released by UNC Basketball. “Eric was diagnosed with cancer in March 2023, and his family is grateful for the tremendous support and the truly overwhelming love expressed by so many people as he battled with his signature determination and grace.”
Eric Montross, was a UNC basketball star in the early 1990s and went on to play in the NBA for eight seasons.
Montross played for UNC from 1990 to 1994 and became a major figure in Tar Heels history. He was the starting center on legendary coach Dean Smith’s 1993 NCAA championship team, which beat Michigan’s Fab Five in the title game. That same year, Montross was named first team All-ACC and Final Four all-tournament honors.
The Boston Celtics drafted Montross ninth overall in 1994. He spent 2 seasons with the Celtics prior to being traded to the Dallas Mavericks.
With heavy hearts we bring you this update from the family of Eric Montross.
Rest in peace Big E.
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— Carolina Basketball (@UNC_Basketball) December 18, 2023