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Memphis Grizzlies Forward Brandon Clarke Dies at 29

Memphis Grizzlies Forward Brandon Clarke Dies at 29

MEMPHIS, Tenn. — Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke has died at the age of 29, the team, his agency Priority Sports, and the NBA announced Tuesday. No cause of death has been released. Neither the Grizzlies nor Priority Sports provided details about when or how Clarke passed away. The Grizzlies released

Calvin Smith profile image
by Calvin Smith

MEMPHIS, Tenn. — Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke has died at the age of 29, the team, his agency Priority Sports, and the NBA announced Tuesday.

No cause of death has been released. Neither the Grizzlies nor Priority Sports provided details about when or how Clarke passed away.

The Grizzlies released a statement expressing profound sorrow over the loss.

“We are heartbroken by the tragic loss of Brandon Clarke,” the team said. “Brandon was an outstanding teammate and an even better person whose impact on the organization and the greater Memphis community will not be forgotten. We express our deepest condolences to his family and loved ones during this difficult time.”

Priority Sports, Clarke’s agency, shared an emotional tribute on social media.

“We are all beyond devastated by the passing of Brandon Clarke,” the statement read. “He was so loved by all of us here, and everyone whose life he touched. He was the gentlest soul who was the first to be there for all of his friends and family. Our hearts are so broken as we think about his mom, Whitney, his entire family, and all of his friends and teammates. From high school to San Jose State to Gonzaga to the Grizzlies, Brandon impacted everyone who was a part of his life.”

NBA Commissioner Adam Silver also issued a statement:

“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.”

The National Basketball Players Association described Clarke’s death as “an incredible loss for the brotherhood,” praising both his impact on the court and the genuine friendships he built across the league.

Clarke was drafted 21st overall by the Oklahoma City Thunder in 2019 out of Gonzaga and was immediately traded to Memphis, where he spent all seven seasons of his NBA career. He appeared in 309 games, averaging 10.2 points and 5.7 rebounds per game for his career. A high-energy forward known for his athleticism and defensive versatility, Clarke earned All-Rookie Second Team honors in 2020.

His career was hampered by significant injuries in recent years. He tore his left Achilles tendon in March 2023 and played just 72 games over the following three seasons. In the 2025-26 season, he appeared in only two games before a right calf strain sidelined him for the remainder of the year. His final NBA appearance came on Dec. 20, 2025.

In early April, Clarke was arrested in Arkansas on charges of speeding and possession of a controlled substance, reportedly kratom. He was released on bond the following day. Details regarding any connection between that incident and his death were not provided by authorities or the team.

Clarke began his collegiate career at San Jose State, where he had a breakout sophomore season averaging 17.3 points, 8.7 rebounds, 2.6 blocks, and 1.2 steals per game. He transferred to Gonzaga for his final two seasons, helping the Bulldogs reach the national championship game in 2019.

Further updates on memorial plans or arrangements are expected in the coming days.


This is a developing story.

Calvin Smith profile image
by Calvin Smith

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