Eric Montross Dies of Cancer at 52

Eric Montross, North Carolina Legend & NBA Dallas Mavs Ex, Dies of Cancer at 52

DALLAS - Eric Montross, the former NCAA college basketball champion and NBA first-round draft pick who spent time with the Dallas Mavs , has died after his battle with cancer.

The University of North Carolina standout was 52.

Montross passed away on Sunday, nine months after he was diagnosed with cancer.

"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," the North Carolina athletics department said in a statement.

"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.

"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."

Montross helped North Carolina to a national championship over the "Fab Five" Michigan team in 1993.

The Boston Celtics selected Montross with the No. 9 overall pick of the 1994 NBA Draft.

Montross played in the NBA for eight seasons with the Detroit Pistons, Toronto Raptors, the Mavericks, New Jersey Nets, Philadelphia 76ers and the Pistons. 

He finished his career averaging 4.5 points and 4.6 rebounds in 465 career games before moving into a successful media career.