On May 13, the Memphis Grizzlies released an official statement announcing the tragic passing of forward Brandon Clarke at the age of 29. According to TMZ, authorities are investigating the cause of his death, with an initial determination pointing to a drug overdose.
Officials discovered drug paraphernalia at the Grizzlies player’s residence on Monday. The Los Angeles Fire Department received a medical emergency call around 5 p.m. local time, and Clarke was pronounced dead upon the arrival of paramedics, as reported by NBC4.
An autopsy will be conducted to confirm the exact cause and manner of death.
Clarke was a first-round pick in the 2019 NBA Draft and was named to the All-Rookie Team. He played seven NBA seasons with the Memphis Grizzlies, averaging 10.2 points and 5.5 rebounds per game. This season, he appeared in only two games due to injuries, missing the majority of the schedule.
Last month, Clarke was arrested and charged with trafficking controlled substances, possession of controlled substances, evading police while speeding, and improper passing.