Former Butler center Andrew Smith passes away at 25

Published Jan. 12, 2016 5:53 p.m. ET

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Former Butler center Andrew Smith, a member of the 2010 and 2011 teams that reached the Final Four, passed away on Tuesday in the arms of his wife, Samantha. He was 25 years old.

Samantha, who has updated Andrew's condition throughout his two-year battle with cancer, sadly delivered the news on Tuesday evening.

Smith was diagnosed with non-Hodgkin's lymphoma in Feb. 2014. After receiving a clean bill of health, the couple confirmed in August that Andrew's cancer had returned. He later diagnosed with leukemia.

The 6-foot-11 Smith, a starter on the 2011 national finalist, appeared in 134 games for the Bulldogs, averaging double figures as a junior and senior. He will be remembered much more for what he did off the court.

"Above all else, what made Andrew special was the way that he genuinely cared for others. Within his large frame was an even larger heart. He is, was, and always will be a Bulldog," read a joint statement from Butler President James Danko and Butler Vice President/Director of Athletics Barry Collier. 

Butler hosts St. John's on Saturday afternoon, which earlier this week was named "Stay Positive Day" in honor of Smith's battle.

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