Ex-Knicks first-round pick, former college All-American dies at 43

SportsFormer Knicks forward Michael Sweetney has died. (JOHN MUNSON/THE STAR-LEDGER)SLBy Matt Connolly | mconnolly@pennlive.comFormer Georgetown star Michael Sweetney, who was drafted by the New York Knicks in the first round of the 2003 NBA Draft, has died. He was 43.Sweetney’s wife India shared the news on Facebook Thursday.“With the heaviest hearts, we are deeply saddened to announce the passing of our beloved Michael. To know Mike Sweetney was to love him,” India said. “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. ... 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.”Sweetney starred at Georgetown from 2000 to 2003. He averaged 18.2 points per game and shot 55 percent from the field during his college career.Sweetney was a finalist for the Naismith College Player of the Year award as a junior. He finished his college career with 1,750 points, 887 rebounds and 180 blocks in three seasons.“Prayers to the family of Georgetown men’s basketball alum Michael Sweetney. He will be missed - forever a Hoya,” Georgetown Basketball posted on X.Sweetney was selected by the Knicks with the No. 9 overall pick in the 2003 NBA Draft. He played for the Knicks from 2003 to 2005 before being traded to the Chicago Bulls. He played with the Bulls from 2005 to 2007.During his four seasons in the NBA, Sweetney appeared in 233 games. He averaged 6.5 points and 4.5 rebounds for his career.“The Knicks are saddened to hear about the passing of Michael Sweetney,” the franchise said on X. “Michael was an incredible person who will be missed by many. Our thoughts are with his family.”Matt Connolly is a Sports Trending Reporter for PennLive, writing about the NFL, college sports and other topics. He has covered college football and college basketball since 2010 and was on the Clemson beat...