Brandon Clarke, Memphis Grizzlies player, dies at 29

(NBC, KYMA) - Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke has died, the team announced in a statement Tuesday.

"We are heartbroken by the tragic loss of Brandon Clarke," the team wrote. "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 acquired by the Grizzlies in the first round of the 2019 NBA draft and spent his entire career with the team.

A forward-center hybrid, Clarke averaged 12.1 points and 5.9 rebounds per game in his first year with the Grizzlies, and was named to the 2019-20 all-rookie first team.

After undergoing knee surgery last fall, he appeared in only two games during the 2025-26 season.

In April, Clarke was arrested in Arkansas on charges that included speeding, and possession of a controlled substance.

NBA Commissioner Adam Silver released the following 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."

There is no word on the cause of death. Clarke was 29.