Tragedy in the NBA: Grizzlies Forward Brandon Clarke Dies at 29
The Memphis Grizzlies and the NBA are in mourning after the sudden death of forward Brandon Clarke. The 29-year-old died on Monday, his agency, Priority Sports, announced on Tuesday. The cause of death is pending an investigation by the Los Angeles County Department of Medical Examiner.
Circumstances
Law enforcement sources told multiple media outlets that Clarke was found dead on Monday in a home in the San Fernando Valley.
Drug paraphernalia and narcotics were reportedly found at the scene, with no evidence of foul play. A person familiar with the investigation described the death as a possible drug overdose. An autopsy is pending.
Career
Clarke played seven NBA seasons, all with the Memphis Grizzlies. He was selected 21st overall in the 2019 NBA Draft by the Oklahoma City Thunder and was immediately traded to Memphis.
- Rookie Season: Averaged 12.1 points and 5.9 rebounds per game. He was named to the NBA's All-Rookie First Team and finished fourth in Rookie of the Year voting.
- Contract: Signed a four-year contract extension in 2022. Sources reported the value of the deal as either $50 million or $52 million.
- Career Averages: Over 309 games, Clarke averaged 10.2 points and 5.5 rebounds per game.
- Injuries: His career was significantly impacted by injuries, including a torn left Achilles tendon in March 2023. Due to calf and knee issues, he played only two games in the 2025-26 season.
Recent Legal Incident
On April 1, 2025, Clarke was arrested in Arkansas on multiple charges. Reports vary on the specific charges, but they include:
- Speeding and reckless driving
- Possession of a controlled substance, reported by some sources as kratom
- Fleeing in a vehicle while speeding
- Trafficking a controlled substance
Background
Clarke was born in Vancouver, Canada, and raised in Phoenix, Arizona. He began his college basketball career at San Jose State, where he averaged 17.3 points and 8.7 rebounds per game as a sophomore.
He then transferred to Gonzaga University, where he earned third-team All-American honors in 2019 and was named West Coast Conference Newcomer of the Year and Defensive Player of the Year. He led the Bulldogs to the Elite Eight.
Statements
Multiple organizations and individuals issued statements following the confirmation of Clarke's death:
Priority Sports: Expressed being "beyond devastated" and described Clarke as a supportive friend, a gentle soul, and someone who brought joy to others.
Memphis Grizzlies: Expressed heartbreak over the loss, calling Clarke an outstanding teammate and an even better person.
NBA Commissioner Adam Silver: Called Clarke a beloved teammate and leader who played with passion and grit.
National Basketball Players Association (NBPA): Executive Director Andre Iguodala and President Fred VanVleet remembered Clarke for the joy he brought and the friendships he built.
Gonzaga Coach Mark Few: Remembered Clarke as kind, gentle, and warm.