Mike Sweetney, former top Knicks draft pick, dead at 43

Mike Sweetney, a Georgetown star whom the Knicks selected with the No. 9 pick in the 2003 NBA Draft, died at 43 years old.

The news was announced by his wife, India, in a Facebook post Thursday.

“With the heaviest hearts, we are deeply saddened to announce the passing of our beloved Michael,” India wrote. “To know Mike Sweetney was love to 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.”

Mike Sweetney #50 of the New York Knicks slam dunks the ball during the first quarter of a game against the Boston Celtics at Madison Square Garden, Wednesday, March 23, 2005. Charles Wenzelberg/NY Post

No cause of death was announced.

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India recently set up a Go Fund Me that simply said, “God Bless and thank you,” with a goal of $10,000.

“He was the best son, brother, family member, friend, father and husband ANYONE could ask for,” India wrote. “We appreciate every call and text of love and support. We just asked 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.”

Mike Sweetney #50 of the New York Knicks grabs his jersey during a game against the Milwaukee Bucks at Madison Square Garden, Sunday, January 23, 2005. Susan May Tell for NY Post

Sweetney, who battled weight issues throughout his NBA career, played two seasons for the Knicks and showed improvement in Year 2, averaging 8.4 points and 5.4 rebounds per game.

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He was traded that offseason to the Bulls, though, in a deal that brought Eddy Curry and Antonio Davis to New York.

After two seasons in Chicago, Sweetney continued his basketball career overseas

Shaquille O’Neal #32 of the Miami Heat looks for an opening as Mike Sweetney #50 of the New York Knicks plays defense during the first quarter of a game at Madison Square Garden, Tuesday, March 15, 2005. Charles Wenzelberg/NY Post

Mike Sweetney #50 of the New York Knicks, Jerome Williams…

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Publish date : 2026-09-17 18:16:00

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