Chapel Hill, North Carolina—Eric Montross’s family (Laura, Sarah, Andrew, and Megan) has announced that he died on Sunday, December 17, surrounded by loved ones at his Chapel Hill home. Eric was diagnosed with cancer in March 2023, and his family is grateful for the tremendous support and overwhelming love expressed by so many people. He battled with his signature determination and grace.
They also thank the many members of the medical community, particularly those at UNC Lineberger Cancer Center, who fought as hard as he did. To know Eric was to be his friend, and the family is confident that the ripples from his generous, thoughtful life will continue to affect the lives of the many people he touched with his deep and genuine kindness.
The family requests privacy during this difficult time.
Montross played for Dean Smith and the Tar Heels from 1990-94, including his freshman and sophomore seasons as a teammate of current UNC head coach Herbert Davis. In 1993, he started at center for the Tar Heels, who won the NCAA championship.
In 1993, he was named first-team All-ACC, a senior member of the John Wooden All-America team, and earned NCAA East Region and Final Four all-tournament honors while leading Carolina to the national championship.
A first-round draft pick by the Boston Celtics, Eric played eight seasons in the NBA. He was the analyst on the Tar Heel Sports Network for 18 seasons until he stepped away from the microphone this season. He also was senior major gifts director at the Rams Club.
Carolina Athletics statement:
“Carolina Athletics, the Tar Heel basketball family and the entire University community are profoundly saddened and stunned by the loss of Eric Montross, one of our most beloved former student-athletes, at far too young an age. Eric was a great player and accomplished student, but the impacts he made on our community went way beyond the basketball court. He was a man of faith, a tremendous father, husband and son, and one of the most recognizable ambassadors of the University and Chapel Hill.
“He helped the Rams Club secure scholarships for student-athletes, and as color analyst for the Tar Heel Sports Network he brought perspective, heart and humor to UNC fans near and far. Eric also became an ardent supporter of the Lineberger Center while in college and remained a leader in the fight against cancer throughout his life.
“We extend our deepest condolences to Laura, his children and entire family, and his colleagues and friends. The number of people who loved Eric and were touched by him is immeasurable.”
UNC chancellor Kevin Guskiewicz statement:
“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.”
UNC head coach Hubert Davis statement:
“I am devastated. Eric was my friend. He was my teammate. Eric loved being a husband. He loved being a dad. He loved being a Tar Heel and he loved Carolina basketball. I miss him.”
Former UNC head coach Roy Williams statement:
“On the basketball court Eric Montross was truly a giant but off the court he was much bigger and much better. I loved the man.”
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