Eric Montross visits J.S. Waters School

Posted Wednesday, March 28, 2007

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Goldston, NC - An integration of math, character education and March Madness resulted in a visit from former UNC basketball player Eric Montross for all fifth through eighth graders at J.S. Waters School on March 20. Montross shared his experiences and encouraged the students to make good choices and stay away from drugs. He even passed his 1993 NCAA championship ring around so all students could try it on and experience how it felt to be number one.

Students asked Montross many questions which were always answered honestly and with humor. He particularly addressed students who wore rival shirts, even lifting one up to touch the net. When asked how tall he was as a seventh grader, Montross paused and replied, "6'8." He also posed for pictures with the seventh and eighth graders.

Counselor Judy Peele presented Montross with a J.S. Waters shirt and hat on behalf of the students. He enjoyed seeing the student banners and decorated doors of favorite teams and called many students by name. Personal autographs are being sent to all students since he didn't have time to sign them during his visit.

Students were spellbound as Montross shared a story about walking away from a conflict with Shaquille O'Neal that resulted in a big fine the next day for Shaq.

"Was I glad I had walked away? You bet!” admitted Montross.

The seventh and eighth grade students conducted research in preparation for the Montross visit. He was part of the Tar Heel team that won NCAA championship against a Michigan team in 1993. He is seven feet tall and wears a size nineteen shoe. He played in the NBA from 1994 until his retirement in 2003 due to a foot injury. Montross currently stays busy as a commentator with Woody Durham for UNC Tar Heel basketball team.

“Everyone felt they had met a new friend when he left. Our principal Gary Yoder is tall, but was overshadowed by Eric,” said Peele.