UNC basketball’s Eric Montross battling cancer, won’t be on Tar Heels’ radio broadcasts

UNC basketball’s Eric Montross, who continues to battle cancer, will not be a part of the Tar Heels’ radio broadcasts this season.

A national champion at UNC and former NBA player, the 52-year-old Montross had a 3-minute video message prepared for Tar Heel fans on Oct. 13 during “Live Action with Carolina Basketball” at the Dean E. Smith Center.

“I am fighting and will continue to fight every day,” said Montross, a 7-footer whose No. 00 jersey hangs in the rafters at the Smith Center.

The family of Montross announced his cancer diagnosis in March but didn’t offer specifics. In his honor, UNC basketball presented a $25,000 check to UNC Children’s Hospital ahead of Friday’s Blue and White scrimmage.

“Even if you don’t see me – and I know I’m hard to miss – I will be cheering on our Tar Heels during every single game,” Montross said. “Thank you for your support of Carolina Basketball, a program we all love so much. Thank you also for supporting those we love, wherever they are, who are fighting this terrible disease."

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Montross joined UNC as a radio analyst for the Tar Heel Sports Network in the early 2000s. He has served alongside the late Woody Durham and current play-by-play announcer Jones Angell.

Montross also is a key member of the Rams Club, UNC’s fundraiser for athletics. During his time with the Tar Heels, he was an All-American and the starting center for the 1993 national championship squad. He was a top-10 pick in the 1994 NBA Draft and played eight seasons.

Before he wrapped up his video message, Montross had a personal request for everyone in attendance at "Live Action."

“Everyone knows someone who is being affected by cancer,” Montross said.

“Tonight, when you get home – or sometime over the weekend – give that person a call … shoot them a text. Touching base matters. We feel your support, and it helps us get through what might be the toughest days we have ever endured. That’s a powerful way to have a major impact on the fight against cancer.”

UNC has created a way to support the Montross family with stickers and magnets that feature “Fight Cancer" and "Big Grits,” a nod to Montross’ nickname. Donated by SDS Design, the items will be sold to benefit the UNC AYA Cancer Program.

Staff writer Rodd Baxley can be reached at rbaxley@fayobserver.com or @RoddBaxley on X/Twitter.

This article originally appeared on The Fayetteville Observer: UNC basketball’s Eric Montross battling cancer, won’t be on radio