Let’s chat about Eric Montross, the Indiana-born basketball legend. Picture this – he kicked off his pro career with the Chicago-based basketball team after getting picked in the 1994 MLB draft. But rewind a bit to 1990, when he was rocking the hoops at Lawrence North High School and snagged the title of McDonald’s All-American.
Born on September 23, 1971, in Indianapolis, Eric has basketball in his DNA. Both his dad and granddad played for the University of Michigan’s basketball team. Fun fact: His dad was buds with the pro baller Cazzie Russell back in the ’60s.
Now, let’s dive into his school days. Lawrence North High School was his stomping ground, and he was a big deal. I made it to the USA Today All-USA First Team and then decided to represent the North Carolina Tar Heels. Oh, and did I mention he dabbled in baseball in high school? Yep, he’s a multi-sport kinda guy!
Who is Eric Montross?
Alright, let’s dive into the hoops journey of Eric Montross, a true baller hailing from Indiana. This guy kicked off his pro career after getting the nod from a Chicago-based basketball squad in the 1994 MLB draft – talk about making a grand entrance into the big leagues.
But hey, rewind a bit to 1990, and you’ll find Montross rocking the court at Lawrence North High School, bagging the title of McDonald’s All-American. That’s the kind of high school glory that sets the stage for a basketball career.
Now, when he hung up his jersey, Montross didn’t bid farewell to the game; he took a different route and became the voice behind the action. Since 2015, he’s been breaking down UNC men’s basketball games as a radio analyst – a true insider’s perspective.
Born on September 23, 1971, in the basketball city of Indianapolis, Indiana, Montross has a real basketball legacy. Both his old man and granddad were part of the University of Michigan’s basketball squad back in the ’60s. In fact, his dad even shared the court with the legendary Cazzie Russell – imagine the stories they must’ve had!
As for his education, Montross hit the books at Lawrence North High School, where he not only showcased his b-ball skills but also landed a spot on the USA Today All-USA First Team.
Now, picture this – he makes a slam dunk decision and commits to the North Carolina Tar Heels. But hold up, it’s not all about hoops; this guy had some baseball moves, too, during his high school days.
That’s the lowdown on Eric Montross – a journey from high school stardom to pro player and now a game analyst.
Eric Montross NBA Journey
Alright, let’s break down Eric Montross’s NBA journey. Picture this – he got his big break when the Boston Celtics picked him as the ninth overall choice in the 1994 NBA draft. In his rookie season, he made quite a splash, averaging 10 points per game.
They even gave him the nod for the 1995 Rookie All-Star Game and named him to the NBA All-Rookie 2nd Team. But here’s the twist – that level of awesomeness was a one-time deal.
The Celtics took some heat for choosing Montross instead of other big names like Eddie Jones, Jalen Rose, and Aaron McKie. Throughout his NBA career, Eric didn’t stick to one team. He played with the Celtics professional club, Dallas Mavericks club, New Jersey Nets, Philadelphia 76ers, Detroit Pistons, and the Toronto Raptors. The retirement bells rang for him on August 26, 2003, thanks to a foot injury. The Raptors gave him the boot in February 2004.
Now, let’s talk stats. During his time in the NBA, Montross averaged 4.5 points, 4.6 rebounds, 0.6 blocks, as well as 0.4 assists per game. He stepped onto the court for a total of 465 games, starting 288 of them. That’s Eric Montross’s NBA journey in a nutshell!
Early Life
Let me take you back to the early days of Eric Scott Montross, born on September 23, 1971, right there in the hoops hotspot of Indianapolis, Indiana. Now, imagine this towering guy, a solid 7 feet tall, making a real statement on the court. Where? None other than the legendary grounds of Lawrence North High School.
Montross wasn’t just playing ball; he was owning that paint, leaving everyone in awe of his skills. Word got around, and before he knew it, he was suiting up for the University of North Carolina.
And let me tell you, playing for UNC isn’t just a game; it’s stepping onto the court where legends are made, all under the watchful eye of the one and only Coach Dean Smith.
Fast forward to 1993, and Montross isn’t just a player; he’s a key piece in the Tar Heels’ puzzle, helping them snag that NCAA Championship. His time at North Carolina wasn’t just about victories; it was about crafting a career that would be etched in basketball history.
What Happened to Eric Montross?
The former basketball star for North Carolina, who played a pivotal part in the Tar Heels winning the 1993 national championship, passed away at the age of 52 due to cancer.
Before becoming a first-round draft pick and enjoying an eight-season stint in the NBA, Montross earned the title of a two-time All-American during his college career. The University of North Carolina made the announcement on Monday, expressing their condolences.
Eric Montross’s Cause of Death
Eric Montross had been battling cancer since March, and his alma mater, the University of North Carolina, provided him with full support during this challenging time. He was undergoing treatment at the University of North Carolina Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center.
Sadly, Montross passed away peacefully at his home in Chapel Hill on Sunday, as confirmed by UNC in a statement. Out of respect for Montross’s family’s wishes for privacy, no further details have been disclosed about his passing.
Was Eric Montross Married?
Eric Montross shared his life with his wife, Laura. Together, they founded the Eric Montross Father’s Day Basketball Camp, making hoops a family affair.
However, the Montross family faced a tough blow when they shared on the Tar Heels Team Twitter account on Saturday, March 25, that Eric had been diagnosed with cancer.
They’ve been in the ring, fighting against children’s cancer for nearly three decades, so they know the ropes. The family expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support and responses from fans.
In terms of treatment, the word is that Montross is gearing up for the battle at the UNC Lineberger Center in North Carolina. Here’s to hoping for strength, healing, and slam-dunking cancer out of the park.
Net Worth of Eric Montross
Let’s talk about Eric Montross – not just a baller but a guy who made his mark in the NBA from 1994 to 2004, raking in around $18.8 million in salaries. Now, adjust that for today’s bucks, and you’ve got a decent payday. He wasn’t exactly an All-Star, but his defensive game made him a go-to guy for the teams he repped.
Here’s the thing – fans from UNC (that’s the University of North Carolina) will forever hold a special spot for Montross. Why? Well, back in ’93, he snagged a championship for their team. Talk about leaving a legacy!
Now for the not-so-great news. Eric Montross left us way too soon, passing away at just 52 on December 17, 2023. Cancer took him after a tough battle that started with a diagnosis in March 2023. The UNC Lineberger Cancer Center in North Carolina was where he fought the fight.
As he left us, Eric’s net worth was around $5 million. So, let’s remember the guy who played hard, earned his keep and became part of sports history.
