The passing of the professional basketball player has deeply saddened NBA fans, who are expressing heartfelt condolences to Eric Montross wife and family.
When alive, Eric Montross experienced much love from his family, friends, fans, and well-wishers.
The former Toronto Raptors player married his wife Laura Montross for a significant period and shared a lasting bond.
Eric Montross was born to an athletic family on September 23, 1971, in Indianapolis, Indiana, United States.
His athletic journey started with Lawrence North High School, where he displayed exceptional skills.
Later, he attended the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill to join the Tar Heels.
Moreover, as a junior and senior, Montross earned All-American honors and contributed to the UNC team’s victory in the 1993 NCAA Championship against Michigan.
Later, the Boston Celtics selected him in the 1994 NBA draft with the ninth overall pick.
He has played for the Boston Celtics, New Jersey Nets, Dallas Mavericks, Philadelphia 76ers, Toronto Raptors, and Detroit Pistons.
Unfortunately, Eric Montross passed away on December 17, 2023, at the age of 52, leaving his wife and family alone.
Who Is Eric Montross Wife? Laura Montross Details
Eric, the esteemed player and color commentator, shared a long-lasting marriage with his wife, Laura Montross.
The couple tied the knot in 1994 and were together for almost three decades.
Following their marriage, she relocated to several places, such as Boston, Dallas, New Jersey, Philadelphia, Detroit, and Toronto, due to Eric’s work.
Before her marriage with her husband Eric, her name was Laura Leonard.
Laura Montross is a Southern native with a soft Southern accent born in Lexington, North Carolina.
Despite her notable background, details about her date of birth remain undisclosed, leaving everyone in suspense about her age.
However, it is known that she completed her degree at UNC in 1993
She maintains an exceptionally grounded and down-to-earth demeanor, regardless of the influence wielded by both her and her husband.
Professionally, she co-created Raise a Racquet, an annual tennis fundraiser for UNC Children’s Hospital hosted at The FARM.
She also co-founded the Arts in Action program at Frank Porter Graham Elementary.
Currently, Laura serves on the boards of directors for Be Loud! and the UNC Children’s Hospital Board of Visitors.
What Was The Cause of Eric’s Death?
The family of Eric Montross announced that he passed away on December 17, surrounded by loved ones at his home in Chapel Hill.
Furthermore, UNC basketball confirmed the news of his death the following morning.
In late March 2023, the Montross family announced that they had diagnosed Eric with cancer.
The former player received professional treatment at the UNC Lineberger Cancer Center.
However, while receiving treatment for cancer, he could not survive for an extended period and passed away.
His family expressed gratitude to the members of the medical community, especially those at UNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, who matched his fight with equal passion.
Moreover, his family was thankful for the tremendous support and the overwhelming love expressed by so many people as he battled with his signature determination and grace.
The Montross family also requested privacy during their difficult time.
Carolina Athletics called him a man of faith, a tremendous father, husband, and son, and one of the most recognizable University and Chapel Hill ambassadors in his respect.