Former USM basketball player dies

HATTIESBURG, Miss. - The Golden Eagle family is mourning the loss of a former basketball player.

Jonathon Mills, 26, was shot to death Monday afternoon in his home city of Chicago.

Director of Athletics, Bill McGillis said this in a statement:

"The University of Southern Mississippi family is truly saddened to learn of the death of former Golden Eagle men’s basketball great Jonathan Mills. Jonathan brought great joy to the Southern Miss fan base through his infectious personality, his passion for the game, his relentless pursuit of excellence, and his tough, hard-nosed, blue-collar style of play. He was a winner. Jonathan made immense contributions on the court, in the locker room and in the community. He left an indelible mark on our basketball program and university, and our prayers are with his family, friends, former coaches and teammates."

Mills played for Southern Miss from 2011-2013 and averaged 9.5 points, 6.1 rebounds per game. He also helped lead the Golden Eagles to the 2012 NCAA Tournament, which was the first time since 1991.