Former Boston Celtics big man Eric Montross has passed away at the age of 52, according to a statement made by his family via his alma mater, the University of North Carolina, on Monday morning. He was diagnosed with cancer this past March, and passed surrounding by loved ones at his home in Chapel Hill, North Carolina.
“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 said.
Boston selected Montross from the University of North Carolina with the No. 9 overall pick of the 1994 NBA draft. He was named to the Rookie All-Star Game in 1995 and earned All-Rookie Second Team honors that year.
RIP Eric Montross 💚
Our thoughts and prayers are with the Montross family. pic.twitter.com/kzZbLfZzfZ
— Boston Celtics (@celtics) December 18, 2023
Montross played his first two seasons in the league with the Celtics.
After his playing career, Montross worked as an analyst covering University of North Carolina games, while advocating for vaccine access around the world away from the court.
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