North Carolina Tar Heels center Eric Montross. Bob Donnan-USA TODAY Sports

Former UNC star, NBA veteran Eric Montross dies at 52

By Jason Clinkscales | Last updated Dec 18, 2023 1:18 PM ET

The University of North Carolina announced that former Tar Heel center and broadcaster Eric Montross died on Sunday at the age of 52.

Montross was diagnosed with cancer back in March and was being treated at the school's cancer center.

In the school's statement, chancellor Kevin Guskiewicz spoke of Montross' contributions to the school beyond what he accomplished on the court and as a broadcaster:

"I am deeply saddened by the loss of my good friend and Tar Heel legend Eric Montross. He was an incredible friend, a passionate leader and an inspiring advocate for our campus. His impact extended well beyond the court with his tireless support of the UNC Children's Hospital and his annual Father's Day basketball camp. We have lost a great Tar Heel, and Eric will be truly missed. Please keep Laura, Sarah, Andrew and Megan in your thoughts and prayers."

The Indianapolis native was known for his toughness, most especially as one of the cornerstones of the 1993 national championship team. A two-time All-American as a junior and senior, Montross averaged 11.7 points, 6.8 rebounds and 1.2 blocks per game during his four years on campus. In 38 games (36 as a starter) for the title-winning squad, Montross averaged 15.8 points, 7.6 rebounds and 1.2 blocks per game.

Some of that grit was displayed in one of the most heated games in the history of the Duke-UNC rivalry back in 1992. Late in the second half of their February 2 game at the famed "Dean Dome," Montross' defense changed the trajectory of Christian Laettner's attempt to tie the game. The big man had been dealing with elbowing and shoves throughout the game from the Blue Devils, evidenced in this clip with bloody gashes to the left side of his face and an apparent one on his right.

The seven-footer was a first-round draft pick of the Boston Celtics in 1994 and made the All-Rookie Second Team after the 1994-95 season. Despite a solid start to his time in Boston, he was a part of several trades involving playoff contenders and could never stick with a team long-term. Montross spent nine seasons in the Association with six different teams, started 288 of 465 career games, and averaged 4.5 points and 4.6 rebounds per game.

After announcing his retirement from the NBA in 2003, Montross made his way back to North Carolina, calling men's basketball games for its radio network for 18 seasons.

Jason Clinkscales

Jason Clinkscales is a media industry analyst and freelance writer based in his native New York City. He waits with bated breath for a Knicks championship parade at @asportsscribe on Twitter and Instagram.

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