Eric Montross, who starred at North Carolina under legendary coach Dean Smith in the early 1990s before an eight year NBA career, died Sunday after being diagnosed with cancer earlier this year. He was 52.
His death sparked an outpouring of tributes and support from around the college basketball world, who recognized him for both his skill on the floor and the type of human he was off of it.
MPS-USA TODAY Sports
Montross was “the nicest, kindest person one could ever know” according to ESPN commentator Jay Bilas, who was among the many people to chime on social media after Montross’s death was announced Monday morning.
Heartbroken. Eric Montross was the nicest, kindest person one could ever know. A great player and champion, husband, father, friend, and a truly wonderful, beautiful soul. RIP Eric Montross. https://t.co/fUhw41rQpp
— Jay Bilas (@JayBilas) December 18, 2023
Montross was a two-time consensus All-American during his storied career with the Tar Heels, which included winning the 1993 national championship over Michigan’s “Fab Five." That title earned him a spot on the cover of Sports Illustrated.
Not a North Carolina fan, but this was one of my favorite covers from my prime of being a SI subscriber
— Kevin Kaduk (@KevinKaduk) December 18, 2023
RIP Eric Montross pic.twitter.com/fMsRhUPnSi
After retiring from the NBA, Montross spent time around the Tar Heels as a radio broadcaster, was involved in charity work and helped raise money for North Carolina, only furthering his legendary status around college basketball. Plenty of former players, coaches and media members have all chimed in to celebrate his life.
Eric Montross was one of the nicest people I've encountered in this business. Always happy to talk. Always insightful about college basketball and his beloved Tar Heels.
— Michael DeCourcy (@tsnmike) December 18, 2023
Before all of that, he was a great @MarchMadnessMBB champion.
Gone at 52 from cancer is just awful news. RIP.
This is awful news. I had a chance to get to know Eric Montross over the years and he was the nicest, most unassuming person you would ever meet. Just a terrific guy who always had time for anyone and everyone. This is heartbreaking to hear. https://t.co/ODOhUrTtmq
— Jeff Goodman (@GoodmanHoops) December 18, 2023
Our family will be forever thankful for the long, warm friendship of Eric Montross & #HeyWoody. Eric’s kindness toward my Dad in the late years of his career and beyond meant so much. 🙏🏻 to Laura and their family, but all we will miss this special, gentle man. pic.twitter.com/FjOHw5LZwm
— 𝐖𝐞𝐬 𝐃𝐮𝐫𝐡𝐚𝐦 (@WesDurham) December 18, 2023
Eric Montross was a terrific player and a gentle giant. Stayed around the program as a broadcaster and ambassador. I will miss our bro hugs at the Dean Dome and the Final Four. Prayers to his family. May his memory be a blessing. https://t.co/wZjlcylT23
— Seth Davis (@SethDavisHoops) December 18, 2023
— Sean May (@BigMay42) December 18, 2023
So very sad to hear of the loss of Eric Montross whose contributions to the UNC community and our state went far beyond his championship basketball skills. Our deepest condolences go out to all family, friends and Tar Heels. The Big E made a big difference in this world. - RC https://t.co/LF4rZhoKsV
— Governor Roy Cooper (@NC_Governor) December 18, 2023
If all of us did a tenth of the good Eric did in his lifetime, the world would be so much better. Rest easy, Eric. https://t.co/Od0xCsBB2C
— Joe Petrizzi (@Joe_Petrizzi) December 18, 2023
