Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke has died at 29, the team and his representation, Priority Sports, said on Tuesday. No official cause of death was immediately announced. [1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8]
The Grizzlies said they were “heartbroken by the tragic loss of Brandon Clarke,” while Priority Sports said he was “the gentlest soul” and “so loved by all of us here, and everyone whose life he touched.” NBA Commissioner Adam Silver sent condolences to Clarke’s family, friends and the Grizzlies organization. [1, 2, 6]
Several reports said investigators were treating the death as a possible overdose or possible drug overdose, but authorities had not confirmed a cause. Clarke was found in the Los Angeles area, with some reports placing him in California’s San Fernando Valley. [2, 9, 3, 4, 6]
Clarke spent his NBA career with Memphis after being selected 21st overall in the 2019 draft by the Oklahoma City Thunder and having his rights traded to the Grizzlies. He made the NBA All-Rookie First Team in his first season with Memphis. [1, 2, 9, 10, 11, 3, 4, 5, 6, 8]
He played 309 NBA games, made 50 starts and averaged 10.2 points. Injuries limited him in recent seasons, and he played only 2 games in the 2025-26 season. Clarke was arrested in Arkansas on April 1 on charges including speeding and possession of a controlled substance. [12, 2, 4, 6, 8]
The Grizzlies signed Clarke to a four-year extension in October 2022. [1, 2, 4, 6]
