michael sweetney

Updated

Michael Sweetney (October 25, 1982 – September 17, 2026) was an American professional basketball player and coach.

Basketball Career

  • College: Sweetney played for Georgetown University from 2000 to 2003, where he became one of the program's most decorated players. He ranks among the university's all-time leaders in scoring, rebounding, and blocks.
  • NBA: He was selected 9th overall by the New York Knicks in the 2003 NBA Draft. He played for the Knicks for two seasons before being traded to the Chicago Bulls in 2005, where he played for the remainder of his NBA career.
  • Later Career: Following his NBA tenure, he played professionally overseas, including a stint with Urunday Universitario in Uruguay, before transitioning into coaching.

Coaching and Advocacy

  • Coaching: Sweetney served as an assistant coach for the Yeshiva University men's basketball team starting in 2019 and was the head coach of the girls' varsity team at the Ramaz School. In August 2026, he was hired as the head boys' basketball coach at the Golda Och Academy in New Jersey.
  • Mental Health Advocacy: Beyond basketball, Sweetney was a dedicated advocate for mental health awareness, frequently speaking at schools and conferences regarding suicide prevention and personal struggles.

Sweetney passed away on September 17, 2026, at the age of 43.