Sad news: tar heels lost their player today “RIP
CHAPEL HILL, N.C. (WTVD) — From the hardwood to the microphone, UNC basketball icon Eric Montross left a lasting legacy, and his death has been following by an outpouring of support.
Montross died nine months after announcing he had been diagnosed with cancer.
Prior to his diagnosis, the 7-footer was impossible to miss on gamedays at UNC and around campus for other events.
Read more about his lasting legacy here and continue below to see how teammates, coworkers and more are reacting to his passing:
“I am devastated. Eric was my friend. He was my teammate. Eric loved being a husband. He loved being a dad. He loved being a Tar Heel and he loved Carolina basketball. I miss him.” — Hubert Davis, current UNC men’s basketball coach and former teammate with Montross
“I’m absolutely devastated. I’m so sad for Eric’s family…especially Laura, Andrew and Sarah. Selfishly, I’m sad for myself for losing a friend. I’m sad for UNC for losing an incredible Tar Heel. I’m sad for us all for losing the type of person we should all strive to be.” — Jones Angell, current Voice of the Tar Heels
“Heartbroken. Eric Montross was the nicest, kindest person one could ever know. A great player and champion, husband, father, friend, and a truly wonderful, beautiful soul. RIP Eric Montross.” — Jay Bilas, ESPN analyst and former Duke basketball player
“So very sad to hear of the loss of Eric Montross whose contributions to the UNC community and our state went far beyond his championship basketball skills. Our deepest condolences go out to all family, friends and Tar Heels. The Big E made a big difference in this world.” — Gov. Roy Cooper.
“Our family will be forever thankful for the long, warm friendship of Eric Montross & #HeyWoody. Eric’s kindness toward my Dad in the late years of his career and beyond meant so much. to Laura and their family, but all we will miss this special, gentle man.” — Wes Durham, play-by-play announcer and son of longtime Voice of the Tar Heels Woody Durham.
