Former Michigan State Basketball Star Adreian Payne Dies At 31
The basketball world was struck with a tragedy earlier today as former Ohio State basketball star, Jared Sullinger tweeted about news he had received about Adreian Payne.
Shortly after, the Detroit Free Press’ Chris Solari confirmed the news that the former Michigan State basketball star had died at age 31.
Payne had a memorable as the star of the Spartans basketball program. The team appeared in the NcAA Tournament in each of his college seasons. In his final 3 seasons, Michigan State made it to at least the Sweet Sixteen in each season.
Payne saw his numbers steadily improve throughout his college career until he eventually averaged 16.4 points and 7.3 rebounds per game as a senior. Payne was named to the All-Big Ten team twice in his college career, but will perhaps be better remembered for his friendship with Lacey Holsworth, a young girl who was dying from cancer.
Payne finished out his NBA career with one year in Orlando.
