Former NBA forward Michael Sweetney dies at 43, Knicks and Bulls mourn loss

After continuing his pro career in Puerto Rico, the Dominican Republic, Uruguay, and Venezuela, Sweetney served as an assistant coach at Yeshiva University in New York City from 2019-23.

Former Georgetown standout and NBA first-round draft pick Michael Sweetney died this week at the age of 43.

He passed away on Wednesday in New Jersey at Newark Beth Israel Medical Center. No cause of death was provided.

A 6-foot-8 power forward, Sweetney played two seasons each with the New York Knicks and Chicago Bulls.

The Knicks drafted Sweetney ninth overall in 2003 after he averaged 22.8 points, 10.4 rebounds, and 3.2 blocks for the Hoyas as a junior in 2002-03.

"The Knicks are saddened to hear about the passing of Michael Sweetney," the team posted on X on Thursday. "Michael was an incredible person who will be missed by many. Our thoughts are with his family."

Sweetney averaged 18.2 points and 9.2 rebounds in 96 games (95 starts) at Georgetown (2000-03). He averaged 6.5 points and 4.5 rebounds in 233 games (73 starts) with the Knicks (2003-05) and Bulls (2005-07).

"Our Bulls family extends our heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of former Bull Michael Sweetney, who has passed away at 43," the team posted on X on Thursday.

Sweetney continued basketball career as Yeshiva assistant coach

After continuing his pro career in Puerto Rico, the Dominican Republic, Uruguay and Venezuela, Sweetney served as an assistant coach at Yeshiva University in New York City from 2019-23.

"The world lost a giant today," Yeshiva head coach Elliot Steinmetz posted on X on Thursday. "I lost a close friend. The basketball world lost a beloved star. Our Jewish community lost an ally and someone who knew exactly how to show up. Mike Sweetney wasn't just a friend. He was family. When you needed him, he was there. Always. You didn't even have to ask."