Sad news hit the NBA community on Thursday, as former New York Knicks center Michael Sweetney passed away at the age of 43.
Sweetney was selected by the Knicks with the ninth overall pick in the 2003 NBA Draft and spent his first two seasons in New York.
The former NBA player's wife, India Murray Sweetney, announced the devastating news on Facebook with a heartfelt message dedicated to her late husband.
"With the heaviest hearts, we are deeply saddened to announce the passing of our beloved Michael. To know Mike Sweetney was love to him. No one loved him more and he loved no one more than his family," she wrote.
"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 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."
Sweetney spent four season in the NBA
Sweetney struggled with his weight for much of his career and played only four seasons in the NBA overall, spending his final two years with the Chicago Bulls. He made his last NBA appearance during the 2006-07 season.
Over 233 NBA appearances, Sweetney averaged 6.5 points and 4.5 rebounds per game.
Despite leaving the NBA in 2007, he continued his professional career overseas and in the G League for another decade.
Sweetney finished his playing career in 2017 with Urunday Universitario in Uruguay.
Since 2019, Sweetney had been working as an assistant coach at Yeshiva University.