Eric Montross, who won an NCAA title with the UNC men’s basketball team in 1993 before serving as the team’s radio analyst, died on Sunday after a battle with cancer. He was 52 years old.

“To know Eric was to be his friend,” read a statement from the Montross family, “And the family knows that the ripples from the generous, thoughtful way that he lived his life will continue in the lives of the many people he touched with his deep and sincere kindness.”

Besides being a recognizable face on the court and voice on the radio, Montross made a name for himself as a philanthropist in the UNC community. His Father’s Day Basketball Camp raises funds for UNC Children’s Hospital, where he often visited to lift the spirits of young cancer patients. Recently, the UNC men’s basketball program presented a $25,000 check to the hospital in Montross’ honor.

Montross was originally diagnosed with cancer in March of 2023. The community rallied around him in his fight, selling stickers and magnets featuring Montross’ No. 00 jersey and his nickname, “Big Grits.” The proceeds from the sales benefited the UNC Adolescent and Young Adult (AYA) Cancer Program.

A seven-footer from Indianapolis, Montross was named a McDonald’s All-American in high school before arriving in Chapel Hill at the start of the 1990-91 basketball season. Playing for head coach Dean Smith and for two seasons alongside current head coach Hubert Davis, Montross and the Tar Heels reached two Final Fours in his four seasons. After falling in the 1991 national semifinals, Carolina returned to the Final Four in 1993 and won the program’s fourth national championship. Montross led the way down low, scoring 16 points in the championship win against Michigan while battling with the Wolverines’ Chris Webber.

The 1993 season was Montross’ best as a Tar Heel, as he averaged a career-high 15.8 points per game and shot higher than 60 percent from the field. He was named first team All-ACC and second team All-America as a junior and earned first team Academic All-America status as a senior. He was selected ninth overall in the 1994 NBA Draft by the Boston Celtics and played eight NBA seasons.

“Eric was a great player and accomplished student, but the impacts he made on our community went way beyond the basketball court,” read a statement from the UNC athletic department. “He was a main of faith, a tremendous father, husband and son, and one of the most recognizable ambassadors of the University and Chapel Hill.

… The number of people who loved Eric and were touched by him is immeasurable.”

 

Featured image via UNC Athletic Communications

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