Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke has died at age 29, the team announced Tuesday, according to CBS News. The team did not immediately provide details about the circumstances of his death.
"We are heartbroken by the tragic loss of Brandon Clarke," the Grizzlies said in a statement posted to social media. "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."
Clarke last appeared in a game for the Grizzlies in December. He had been sidelined with a calf injury, and the team announced in March that he would miss the remainder of the season while his rehabilitation continued. In April, he was arrested on drug charges in Arkansas after being chased by authorities, according to CBS affiliate WREG-TV. He had been released on bond.
NBA Commissioner Adam Silver responded to the news with a formal statement.
"We are devastated to learn of the passing of Brandon Clarke," Silver said. "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."
Priority Sports, the agency that represented Clarke, also released a statement.
"He was so loved by all of us here, and everyone whose life he touched," the agency said on social media. "He was the gentlest soul who was the first to be there for all of his friends and family."
Clarke was selected by the Grizzlies in the first round of the 2019 NBA Draft out of Gonzaga University. Over seven seasons in the league, he averaged 10.2 points and 5.5 rebounds per game.
