BOSTON, MASS. Eric Montross, a first-round draft pick by the Boston Celtics who played nine seasons in the NBA, died Sunday after a battle with cancer, his family said in a statement released by Montross’ alma school, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. He was 52.
Montross was diagnosed with cancer in March and has “battled with his signature determination and grace,” according to his family, who are “grateful for the tremendous support and truly overwhelming love expressed by so many people.”
“To know Eric was to be his friend, 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,” the statement went on to say. “The family asks for privacy during this difficult period.”
After finishing his undergraduate basketball career at the University of North Carolina in 1994, Montross headed to Boston to play for the Celtics, where he averaged 10.0 points and 7.3 rebounds per game in his rookie season.
Before finishing his second season with the Celtics, Montross was traded to the Dallas Mavericks. Montross spent the rest of his professional basketball career with the New Jersey Nets, Philadelphia 76ers, Detroit Pistons, and Toronto Raptors.
Montross averaged 4.5 points, 4.6 rebounds, 0.6 blocks, and 0.4 assists per game while appearing in 465 games and starting 288. Due to a foot ailment, he declared his retirement on August 26, 2003.
Montross was an analyst on the Tar Heel Sports Network for 18 seasons after retiring from basketball, until he stepped down this season. He was also the Rams Club’s Senior Director of Principal Gifts and a supporter of the North Carolina Children’s Hospital.
