Ex-NBA player Michael Sweetney dies aged 43 as wife India and former teams pay tribute

Michael Sweetney, who played four seasons in the NBA with the New York Knicks and Chicago Bulls after a standout college career at Georgetown, has died aged 43.

The Knicks, Bulls and Georgetown acknowledged Sweetney’s death with posts on social media.

He died on Wednesday at Newark Beth Israel Medical Center, with wife India sharing an emotional farewell.

“With the heaviest hearts we are deeply saddened to announce the passing of our beloved Michael,” India wrote.

“To know Mike was to love him. No one loved him more and he loved no one more than his family.

“His children were the light of his life, and he lived every day to give them the best life possible.

“He’s been my best friend for 30 years and my husband for almost 20. I’m not sure what we or I will do without him.

“He was the best son, brother, family member, friend, father and husband anyone could ask for.

“We appreciate every call and text of love and support. We just ask that right now you give us all a little time before you start to reach out because it’s been pretty overwhelming. Thank you and God bless.”

The Knicks selected Sweetney out of Georgetown with the ninth overall pick in the 2003 draft.

Sweetney posted career averages of 6.5 points, 4.5 rebounds and 15.5 minutes in 233 career games, including 73 starts.

He was invited to an alumni night at a Knights game in January this year.

“It was a fun and amazing night being around all the legends I grew up watching. Also it was great to see my brothers that I played with and against,” Sweetney wrote.

He averaged double-doubles each of his final two college seasons with 19 points and 10 rebounds per game in 2001-02 and 22.8 points and 10.4 rebounds per game in 2002-03.