Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke has died at the age of 29, his team and agency confirmed on Tuesday, May 12, 2026.

In a statement posted on X, the Memphis Grizzlies said they were “heartbroken” over Clarke’s death.

“We are heartbroken by the tragic loss of Brandon Clarke. He was an outstanding teammate and an even better person,” the team said.

The Grizzlies added that Clarke’s impact on the organisation and Memphis community “will never be forgotten.”

NBA Commissioner Adam Silver also reacted to the news, saying he was “devastated” to learn of Clarke’s passing.

“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,” Silver said.

Priority Sports, the agency representing Clarke, described him as a kind and supportive person who was loved by everyone around him.

Clarke began his NBA career in 2019 after being selected in the first round of the NBA Draft by the Oklahoma City Thunder. He was traded to Memphis two weeks later and spent all seven of his NBA seasons with the franchise.

The forward quickly emerged as a fan favourite during the 2019-20 season, averaging 12.1 points and 5.9 rebounds in 58 games. He finished fourth in NBA Rookie of the Year voting and earned a place on the NBA All-Rookie Team.

After signing a four-year $52 million contract extension with Memphis in 2022, Clarke suffered a torn Achilles injury in 2023, limiting his appearances in the following seasons.

He played 64 games during the 2024-25 season but featured in only two games this year due to calf and knee injuries.

Brandon Clarke cause of death

Clarke’s official cause of death has not yet been announced. According to NBC Bay Area, law enforcement officials are investigating the possibility of a drug overdose after drug paraphernalia was allegedly found at the scene in California’s San Fernando Valley, where Clarke was pronounced dead on Monday.

The report added that authorities have not confirmed a final cause of death.

Clarke was previously arrested in Arkansas in April 2026 on allegations related to speeding and possession of a controlled substance.