Eric Montross, former college basketball star and first-round NBA pick, dead at 52

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Eric Montross, a former NCAA college basketball champion and NBA first-round draft pick, has died after a battle with cancer, his family said in a statement through the University of North Carolina on Monday. He was 52.

Montross died on Sunday, about nine months after he was diagnosed with cancer. The family asked for privacy during the difficult time.

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North Carolina Eric Montross, #00, during photo shoot at Dean Smith Center in Chapel Hill, North Carolina. (Peter Read Miller /Sports Illustrated via Getty Images)

"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 said. 

"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.

"He helped the Rams Club secure scholarships for student-athletes, and as color analyst for the Tar Heel Sports Network he brought perspective, heart and humor to UNC fans near and far. Eric also became an ardent supporter of the Lineberger Center while in college and remained a leader in the fight against cancer throughout his life.

"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."

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