With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of former Boston Celtics center Eric Montross. 

The former University of North Carolina national champion, aged 52, has lost his battle with cancer. UNC provides the following statement:

In a surprising revelation, Eric Montross, a former player for the Boston Celtics, disclosed his recent diagnosis with cancer in April. Montross, selected by the Celtics in the 1994 NBA Draft after a successful college career culminating in a national championship, made an impactful debut in the 1994-95 season, averaging 10 points and 7.3 rebounds. His impressive performance earned him a well-deserved spot on the NBA’s All-Rookie team.

Despite facing a sophomore slump during the 1995-1996 season, Montross remained a sought-after player. The Dallas Mavericks, in particular, expressed interest and struck a deal with the Celtics, offering an unprotected 1997 first-round pick in the highly anticipated Tim Duncan draft, along with a pick swap in the upcoming NBA Draft. The Celtics utilized the pick swap to select future All-Star Antoine Walker. Although the 1997 Mavs pick didn’t secure the top spot for Duncan, landing at #5, the Celtics, under new president Rick Pitino, selected Ron Mercer (with hindsight suggesting Tracy McGrady as a potentially better choice).

Montross experienced multiple trades in 1997, moving from the Mavericks to the New Jersey Nets in a significant nine-player trade in February. This marked the beginning of his journey through the 76ers and eventually the Pistons until February 2001, when he was traded to the Raptors. Montross concluded his NBA career with the Toronto Raptors in the 2001-2002 season.

While Montross faced challenges in replicating his rookie success, a notable aspect was his declining free throw shooting, dropping from a 68% free throw percentage in college to 38% in his second NBA season. This impacted his playability, and Montross ended his eight-season NBA career with a 48% free throw shooting average, only reaching the 50% mark once after his strong rookie campaign.

Despite the ups and downs, Montross will be remembered for his valiant efforts in the 1995 playoffs, particularly when facing Shaquille O’Neal and the #1 seed Orlando Magic. Those games also marked the final basketball matches at the original Boston Garden.

Beyond his playing career, Montross found success as a radio analyst for his alma mater, the North Carolina Tar Heels. As news of his cancer diagnosis surfaces, the Celtics community sends their prayers and support to the Montross family during this challenging time, emphasizing the lasting connection of once a Celtic, always a Celtic.