Memphis Grizzlies Forward Brandon Clarke Dies at Age 29; NBA Mourns Loss

NBA forward for the Memphis Grizzlies, Brandon Clarke, has died at the age of 29, his team and sports agency announced in statements on Tuesday.

An official cause of death was not immediately released by either party. The Grizzlies said they are “heartbroken” by the tragic loss, with Clarke’s agency, Priority Sports, echoing their devastation.

“Brandon was an outstanding teammate and an even better person whose impact on the organization and the greater Memphis community will not be forgotten,” the Grizzlies wrote in a post on X. “We express our deepest condolences to his family and loved ones during this difficult time.”

“He was so loved by all of us here and everyone whose life he touched,” wrote Priority Sports. “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,” the statement continued. “Everyone loved BC because he was always there as the most supportive friend you could ever imagine. He was so unique in the joy he brought to all of those in his life.”

Born in Vancouver, Canada and raised in Arizona, Clarke began his college basketball career at San Jose State University, before transferring to Gonzaga University.

He was selected by The Oklahoma City Thunder as the 21st overall NBA draft pick in 2019 and quickly traded to The Grizzlies where he played for seven seasons. In 2022, he signed a multi-year $50 million contract extension with the team.

“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,” NBA commissioner Adam Silver said in a statement. “Our thoughts and sympathies are with Brandon’s family, friends and the Grizzlies organization.”

In 2023, Clarke tore his left Achilles tendon in a match against the Denver Nuggets. The season-ending injury limited his game appearances. He played in 72 games over the past three seasons and only two this season.

“This is an incredible loss for the brotherhood,” said the National Basketball Association. “We will remember Brandon not only for the immense joy he brought to so many throughout his career, but for the genuine friendships he built far beyond basketball.”

Last month, Clarke was arrested in Arkansas on multiple charges including speeding and possession of a controlled substance. He allegedly led deputies on a high-speed chase during the incident, with over 200 grams of kratom, an herbal supplement that acts as a pain reliever, in his possession.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.