Brandon Clarke, a forward for the Memphis Grizzlies, died Tuesday at the age of 29. His agency, Priority Sports, announced the news Tuesday afternoon. The cause of death was not disclosed.
Clarke was selected 21st overall in the 2019 NBA Draft by the Oklahoma City Thunder and traded to Memphis within weeks of being drafted. He spent all seven of his NBA seasons with the Grizzlies, building a reputation as a tough, defensive-minded player who was central to Memphis's identity during some of its most competitive years.
"We are all beyond devastated by the passing of Brandon Clarke. 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 part of his life," his agency said in a statement.
The agency continued: "Everyone loved BC because he was always there as the most supportive friends you could ever imagine. He was so unique in the joy he brought to all of those in his life. It's just impossible to put into words how much he'll be missed."
Clarke made an immediate impression in the league, earning All-Rookie honors in his first season. He became one of Memphis's most important defensive players and a reliable offensive contributor off the bench. During the Grizzlies' deepest postseason run in 2022, a season in which the team won 56 regular-season games, Clarke was a necessity on the floor for his aggressive rebounding and ability to finish at the rim. Though he was never a full-time starter, he was considered part of the core the Grizzlies were building toward championship contention.
Injuries slowed Clarke significantly in his final years. He played only two games this past season after recovering from a knee injury, then suffered a season-ending calf injury in December. In April, he was arrested in Arkansas and charged with possession of a controlled substance, fleeing in a vehicle while exceeding the speed limit, and trafficking a controlled substance. He was released the following day on bond.
The Grizzlies released a statement following news of his death: "We are heartbroken by the tragic loss of Brandon Clarke. 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."
NBA Commissioner Adam Silver also responded, according to CBS Sports: "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."
