The UNC alumnus captivated fans across his NCAA, NBA, and broadcasting careers

COLLEGE basketball legend Eric Montross has died at the age of 52.

The NCAA champion battled cancer for nine months this year before succumbing to his illness.

Eric Montross has died at just 52 years old

His family issued a statement through his alma mater, the University of North Carolina.

“His family is grateful for the tremendous support and the truly overwhelming love expressed by so many people as he battled with his signature determination and grace,” the family wrote.

“To know Eric was to be his friend, and the family knows that the ripples from the generous, thoughtful way that he lived his life will continue in the lives of the many people he touched with his deep and sincere kindness.”

Montross made two second-team All-American teams with the Tar Heels and was the starting center for the NCAA Championship-winning team in 1993.

The NCAA star was selected ninth overall in the 1994 NBA draft by the Boston Celtics.

He also spent time with the Dallas Mavericks, New Jersey Nets, Philadelphia 76ers, Detroit Pistons, and Toronto Raptors.

Montross spent eight years in the NBA before retirement.

After retirement, the former Tar Heel went back to his alma mater to serve as a color commentator for the Tar Heel Sports Network. His voice became synonymous with UNC basketball.

Montross also headlined many philanthropic endeavors during and after his playing career.

He co-founded an organization called Vaccine Ambassadors, which distributed vaccines across the world to those in need.

He also started the Eric Montross Fathers Day Basketball Camp which raised over $1 million for the UNC Children’s hospital.

NBA and UNC fans shared tributes for the fallen legend through social media.

“Honestly he is the reason I went to UNC and fell in love with Carolina basketball, will be missed,” one fan said.

“One of my childhood heroes and an absolutely wonderful analyst and I’m sure a better man. Rest in Peace 00,” another fan said.

“God Bless you Big Grits, you brought so much joy to our family over the years,” another fan said with a picture of his number attached.