Obituary – Cause of Death : Former UNC and NBA player Eric Montross passes away at 52 after battling cancer

Eric Montross, a former UNC and NBA player, passed away at the age of 52 after a courageous battle with cancer. The news of his untimely death has left the basketball community and fans in shock and mourning. Montross will always be remembered for his exceptional skills on the court and his contributions to the game.

Born on September 23, 1971, in Indianapolis, Indiana, Eric Montross developed a deep love for basketball from a young age. He attended Lawrence North High School, where he quickly made a name for himself as an outstanding player. Montross’s impressive performance caught the attention of college scouts, and he was recruited by the University of North Carolina (UNC) Tar Heels.

During his time at UNC, Montross established himself as one of the top centers in college basketball. Standing at 7 feet tall, he possessed an imposing presence on the court. Montross played a crucial role in leading the Tar Heels to the 1993 NCAA Championship. His dominant performance in the final game against the University of Michigan propelled UNC to victory, earning him the Most Outstanding Player award.

Following his successful college career, Montross declared for the NBA draft and was selected by the Boston Celtics as the ninth overall pick in 1994. He spent the majority of his NBA career playing for the Celtics, where he showcased his skills as a reliable center. Montross’s strong defensive abilities and rebounding prowess made him a valuable asset to the team.

Throughout his NBA career, Montross also played for several other teams, including the Dallas Mavericks, New Jersey Nets, Philadelphia 76ers, and Toronto Raptors. Although injuries plagued him later in his career, Montross continued to demonstrate his dedication and determination to succeed on the court.

Off the court, Montross was known for his humility and kindness. He actively participated in various charitable endeavors, using his platform to make a positive impact on the lives of others. Montross’s contributions to the community earned him respect and admiration from both fans and fellow players.

While the exact cause of Eric Montross’s death remains unknown, it is clear that his passing has left a void in the basketball world. Tributes and condolences have poured in from fans, friends, and former teammates, highlighting the profound impact he had on their lives.

Montross’s legacy extends beyond his basketball career. He will forever be remembered as a fierce competitor, a dedicated teammate, and a role model for aspiring athletes. His achievements on and off the court serve as an inspiration to many.

The basketball community mourns the loss of a true legend, and the void left by Eric Montross’s absence will be felt for years to come. As fans, we will cherish the memories of his exceptional performances, his sportsmanship, and the joy he brought to the game. May he rest in peace..

Eric Montross, a former UNC and NBA player, dies at 52 after cancer fight https://t.co/5dLgwST7ON

— 13 Action News (@13abc) December 18, 2023

Condolences

@13abc said Eric Montross, a former UNC and NBA player, dies at 52 after cancer fight 13abc.com/2023/12/18/eri…