Former Butler standout Joel Cornette dies at age 35

Former Butler Bulldogs basketball player Joel Cornette has died of natural causes at the age of 35, his family announced to the university early Tuesday morning.

"This morning, we spoke with the Cornette Family, who has confirmed that their beloved son and brother, Joel, passed away early this morning due to natural causes," said a statement issued by Butler University. "They are shocked and devastated by this news. The Butler Family also mourns the loss of one of our favorite Bulldogs. Additional information will be released by the Cornette Family as it becomes available. Please join us in keeping the Cornette Family in your thoughts and prayers."

Cornette, who graduated from Butler in 2003, had 1,100 points, 712 rebounds and 144 blocks as he helped lead the Bulldogs to three NCAA tournament appearances in his four seasons. Butler had a 100-30 record in Cornette's four seasons.