The Memphis Grizzlies and the basketball world are mourning the sudden loss of forward Brandon Clarke, who has passed away at the age of 29.
Clarke’s death was confirmed on Tuesday by both the Grizzlies organization and his representatives at Priority Sports. At this time, the cause of death has not been disclosed.
In a heartfelt statement, the Grizzlies said: “We are heartbroken by the tragic loss of Brandon Clarke. He was an outstanding teammate and an even better person, whose impact on the organization and the Memphis community will never be forgotten. Our deepest condolences go out to his family and loved ones during this incredibly difficult time.”
The 29‑year‑old forward’s career was plagued by injuries over the past two seasons. He appeared in only six games during the 2023‑24 campaign after suffering a torn Achilles, and managed just two games this season. Clarke missed the start of the current campaign with a right knee injury, returned in mid‑December, and then sustained a right calf injury in his second game back. On March 24, the Grizzlies ruled him out for the remainder of the season.
Priority Sports also released a statement: “We are all beyond devastated by Brandon’s passing. He was loved by everyone here and by everyone whose life he touched. He was the gentlest soul, always the first to be there for friends and family. Our hearts are broken as we think of his mother Whitney, his entire family, and all of his friends and teammates. From high school to San Jose State, to Gonzaga, to the Grizzlies, Brandon made a lasting impact on everyone around him. Everyone loved BC because he was the most supportive friend you could imagine. The joy he brought to those in his life was unique. It’s impossible to put into words how much he’ll be missed.”
On April 1, Clarke was arrested on four charges, including possession of a controlled substance and trafficking a controlled substance, along with two driving offenses: improper passing and fleeing in a vehicle with speeding.
Drafted 21st overall by the Oklahoma City Thunder in the 2019 NBA Draft and immediately traded to the Grizzlies, Clarke compiled career averages of 10.2 points and 5.5 rebounds across 309 games (50 starts).
NBA Commissioner Adam Silver expressed his condolences: “We are devastated to learn of Brandon Clarke’s passing. As one of the longest‑tenured members of the Grizzlies, he was a beloved teammate and leader who played the game with enormous passion and grit. Our thoughts and sympathies are with his family, friends, and the Grizzlies organization.”
–Field Level Media
