Former New York Knicks first-round pick Michael Sweetney has died at 43, his wife, India Sweetney, announced Thursday.
The Knicks confirmed the news in a statement, saying the organization was “saddened” to learn of Sweetney’s passing and describing him as “an incredible person who will be missed by many.”
Sweetney was selected No. 9 overall by the Knicks in the 2003 NBA Draft, joining a historic class that included LeBron James, Carmelo Anthony, Dwyane Wade and Chris Bosh.
The 6-foot-8 forward played two seasons in New York before being traded to the Chicago Bulls. He later continued his professional career overseas, playing in several international leagues before retiring from professional basketball in 2017.
Before reaching the NBA, Sweetney was a standout at Georgetown. During his final college season, he averaged 22.8 points, 10.4 rebounds and 3.2 blocks per game and was a finalist for both the Naismith College Player of the Year and John Wooden Award.
Sweetney later transitioned into coaching and community work. He joined the Yeshiva University men’s basketball staff as an assistant coach in 2019 and was also involved in high school basketball. He was remembered by friends and colleagues for his presence in the community and his work supporting mental-health awareness.
His wife described Sweetney as a devoted husband and father, saying their children were “the light of his life.”
No cause of death has been announced.
The basketball world is mourning a player whose journey extended well beyond the NBA hardwood.
Rest in peace, Michael Sweetney.
