By Desmond Nleya
Brandon Clarke, forward for the Memphis Grizzlies, has died at the age of 29, the team confirmed on Tuesday.
Neither the Grizzlies nor his agency, Priority Sports, immediately released details regarding the cause of death. Reports from local media in California stated that emergency responders were called to a residence in the San Fernando Valley, where Clarke was later pronounced dead.
“We are heartbroken by the tragic loss of Brandon Clarke,” the Grizzlies said in an official statement. “Brandon was an outstanding teammate and an even better person whose impact on the organization and the Memphis community will never be forgotten.”
Born in Vancouver, Clarke was selected 21st overall in the 2019 NBA Draft by the Oklahoma City Thunder before being traded to Memphis on draft night. He spent his entire NBA career with the Grizzlies and quickly became one of the franchise’s most respected players.
Clarke earned NBA All-Rookie First Team honours in 2020 after averaging 12.1 points and 5.9 rebounds during his debut season alongside teammate Ja Morant.
Injuries severely affected the latter stages of his career, including knee, calf and Achilles problems. He played only two games during the 2025–26 NBA season after battling recurring fitness setbacks.
NBA Commissioner Adam Silver described Clarke as “a beloved teammate and leader who played the game with enormous passion and grit.”
His representatives at Priority Sports said they were “beyond devastated” by the news, adding: “He was the gentlest soul and someone who always showed up for his family, friends and teammates.”
Just weeks before his death, Clarke had reportedly been arrested in Arkansas on charges related to speeding and possession of kratom, an herbal supplement that remains legal in Tennessee. He was released on bond the following day.
Over seven seasons in the NBA, Clarke averaged 10.2 points and 5.5 rebounds, leaving behind a legacy of determination, humility and resilience both on and off the court.
