American basketball in mourning: former NBA star dies aged 43

American basketball is in mourning. Mike Sweetney, the former New York Knicks player and one of Georgetown’s standout names, has died aged 43.

Sweetney was selected by the New York Knicks with the ninth overall pick in the 2003 NBA draft, after starring at Georgetown.

The sad news was announced by his wife, India, in a Facebook post. She described Sweetney as her best friend and her husband of nearly two decades.

“With a broken heart, we deeply mourn the passing of our beloved Michael,” India wrote.

She also underlined the strong bond Sweetney had with his children, saying they were “the apple of his eye” and that he worked every day to give them the best possible life.

The cause of death has not been disclosed.

Sweetney played two seasons in the NBA with the New York Knicks. In his second season he improved his performances, averaging 8.4 points and 5.4 rebounds per game.

Throughout his NBA career, the basketball player also struggled with persistent weight problems.

In the summer after his second season in New York, Sweetney was included in a trade that sent him to the Chicago Bulls, while Eddie Curry and Antonio Davis moved to the Knicks.

After two seasons in Chicago, Sweetney continued his career outside the United States.

Born in Washington, Sweetney went on to play in several leagues outside the U.S., including China, Puerto Rico and South American countries.

He ended his professional basketball career in 2017.

Meanwhile, India had recently also started a GoFundMe campaign, with a goal of 10 thousand dollars.

In her message, Sweetney’s wife asked for time and space for the family in this difficult period.

“He was the best son, brother, family member, friend, father and husband anyone could ask for,” she wrote, thanking everyone who has expressed support and condolences for the family.