Former NCAA college basketball champion and NBA first-round draft pick Eric Montross has passed away at the age of 52 after a battle with cancer, his family announced on Monday. Montross was diagnosed with cancer in March and sadly lost his life on Sunday, surrounded by loved ones at his Chapel Hill home. The University of North Carolina also released a statement expressing their profound sadness and shock at the news, describing Montross as one of their most beloved former student-athletes.

Eric Montross was not only a great player on the basketball court but also made a significant impact in the community. He was known for his faith, being a tremendous father, husband, and son, and for his involvement in various charitable endeavors. Montross played a pivotal role in helping the Rams Club secure scholarships for student-athletes and was a prominent figure in the fight against cancer, becoming an ardent supporter of the Lineberger Center during his college years.

The former Tar Heel standout was a McDonald's All-American in 1990 and committed to play for the University of North Carolina. He emerged as a First-Team All-ACC player in 1993 and a Second-Team All-ACC selection in 1994. Montross also earned Second-Team All-American honors for the Tar Heels in both 1993 and 1994. One of his most significant achievements was helping North Carolina secure a national championship victory over the highly regarded “Fab Five” Michigan team in 1993. Following the 1993-94 season, Montross declared for the NBA draft.

The Boston Celtics selected Montross with the ninth overall pick in the 1994 NBA draft, and he quickly made an impact, earning a spot on the All-Rookie Second Team. Montross went on to have a successful career in the NBA, playing for teams such as the Detroit Pistons, Toronto Raptors, Dallas Mavericks, New Jersey Nets, Philadelphia 76ers, and the Pistons again. Over the course of his career, he averaged 4.5 points and 4.6 rebounds in 465 games.

After retiring from professional basketball, Montross transitioned into a broadcasting role as a color commentator for the Tar Heels Sports Network. He continued to contribute to the University of North Carolina as the senior major gifts director at the Rams Club, where he played a crucial role in fundraising for the athletics department. Montross was also known for his philanthropic efforts, including the launch of a father-child basketball camp to support the UNC Children's Hospital during Father's Day weekend.

The news of Montross' illness was announced by his family earlier this year, which led to him stepping away from his radio analyst duties for UNC game broadcasts. The family shared that Montross had been diagnosed with cancer but did not disclose the specific type. The announcement from the family emphasized Montross' kindness and the lasting impact he had on those who knew him.

The passing of Eric Montross has deeply affected not only the North Carolina athletics community but also the state of North Carolina as a whole. Governor Roy Cooper expressed his condolences, acknowledging Montross' significant contributions beyond his basketball skills. Cooper described Montross as someone who had made a substantial difference in the world.

The loss of Eric Montross has left a void in the basketball community and in the hearts of those who knew him. His legacy will be remembered not only for his accomplishments on the court but also for his selfless contributions to the University of North Carolina and his dedication to helping others. Montross will be greatly missed, and his impact will continue to resonate within the lives of those he touched.