Memphis Grizzlies Forward Brandon Clarke Dies at 29
Brandon Clarke, a forward for the Memphis Grizzlies, has died at the age of 29, the team and his agency confirmed.
Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke has died at the age of 29, the team and his agency, Priority Sports, announced on Tuesday. The cause of death has not been disclosed.
"We are heartbroken by the tragic loss of Brandon Clarke," the Grizzlies stated. "Brandon was an outstanding teammate and an even better person whose impact on the organization and the greater Memphis community will not be forgotten."
Clarke was found deceased on Monday at a residence in the Los Angeles area. Emergency personnel discovered drug paraphernalia at the scene, and an autopsy is scheduled to determine the exact cause of death.
NBA Commissioner Adam Silver expressed his condolences, stating, "We are devastated to learn of the passing of Brandon Clarke. As one of the longest-tenured members of the Grizzlies, Brandon was a beloved teammate and leader who played the game with enormous passion and grit. Our thoughts and sympathies are with Brandon's family, friends, and the Grizzlies organization."
Clarke, originally from Vancouver, was selected 21st overall in the 2019 NBA Draft by the Oklahoma City Thunder and was subsequently traded to the Grizzlies. He earned All-Rookie honors in his first season, averaging 12.1 points and 5.9 rebounds per game. Over his seven-year career with Memphis, Clarke maintained averages of 10.2 points and 5.5 rebounds across 309 games. His playing time in recent seasons was limited due to injuries, including a torn Achilles in 2023 and a calf injury that restricted him to two games in the 2025-26 season.
In April 2026, Clarke was arrested in Arkansas on charges including speeding and possession of a controlled substance. The case was pending at the time of his death.
Clarke was known for his contributions both on and off the court, including community engagement activities in Memphis. His passing has prompted an outpouring of tributes from teammates, fans, and the broader NBA community.