EAST LANSING -- Lacey Holsworth, the 8-year-old girl who befriended the Michigan State basketball program as she battled cancer, died early Wednesday.

Her family announced the news on her Instagram account.

"Princess Lacey has achieved the ultimate victory. She now dances among angels.... The world is a better place because you were in it. Our hearts are broken. We love you Doll. Dance all night... Mommy and Daddy, Will, Mitchell, and Luke #LoveLikeLacey"

The team met Lacey two years ago during a hospital visit, soon after she had been diagnosed with neuroblastoma, a large tumor in her abdomen.

She became known around the country this spring, often by her nickname “Princess Lacey” when she accompanied forward Adreian Payne on senior day at the Breslin Center.

"Just knowing that when I play well it makes her happy, it feels like I'm doing something in a way to help her feel better," Payne said shortly before the NCAA tournament.

Lacey and her family traveled to New York to watch the Spartans compete in the Elite Eight. She was also seen in the stands during the April 3 college slam dunk contest, which Payne competed in.

Multiple Spartans took to Twitter early Wednesday to express their condolences.

Adreian Payne discusses Lacey during the NCAA tournament