The family of Michael Sweetney, the New York Knicks’ first-round pick from the 2003 NBA draft, announced his passing at the age of 43 on Thursday. Sweetney came to New York as the ninth pick out of Georgetown and played two seasons in Manhattan.
Sweetney’s wife, India Murray, made the tragic announcement in a somber Facebook post, which featured a photo of her, Sweetney, and their children posing on the Knicks’ Madison Square Garden floor sometime after their NBA Cup victory in December.
“With the heaviest hearts, we are deeply saddened to announce the passing of our beloved Michael,” Murray wrote. “To know [Michael] 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.”
“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 reaching out, because it’s been pretty overwhelming. Thank you and God bless.”