The Memphis Grizzlies and the NBA community are mourning the sudden death of veteran forward Brandon Clarke, as new details surrounding the 29-year-old’s passing continue to emerge.
According to NBC4 Investigates, law enforcement officials said Clarke’s death is being investigated as a possible overdose after drug paraphernalia was reportedly discovered inside his Los Angeles-area home Monday evening.
Authorities said the Los Angeles Fire Department responded to a 911 medical emergency call shortly after 5 p.m. local time. When paramedics arrived, Clarke was pronounced dead at the scene.
An official cause of death has not yet been determined. Authorities said an autopsy will be conducted to determine both the cause and manner of death.
Brandon Clarke Death Investigation Underway
The shocking death sent waves throughout the NBA on Tuesday after the Grizzlies and Clarke’s agency, Priority Sports, confirmed the news in separate statements.
“We are heartbroken by the tragic loss of Brandon Clarke,” the Grizzlies said. “Brandon was an outstanding teammate and an even better person whose impact on the organization and the greater Memphis community will not be forgotten.”
Priority Sports described Clarke as “the gentlest soul” and said the agency was “beyond devastated” by his passing.
NBA commissioner Adam Silver also released a statement Tuesday morning.
“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.”
Brandon Clarke’s Arrest Before Death Drew Attention
Clarke’s death comes less than six weeks after his arrest in Arkansas on multiple charges, including possession of a controlled substance, fleeing, speeding and trafficking a controlled substance.
According to an arrest affidavit obtained by The Memphis Commercial Appeal, Clarke allegedly led deputies on a high-speed chase reaching more than 100 mph before authorities found over 230 grams of kratom in his possession.
Kratom is an herbal extract derived from a Southeast Asian tree. According to the Mayo Clinic, the substance can act as a stimulant in lower doses and has also reportedly been used to reduce pain and anxiety at higher doses.
While kratom remains legal in some states, Arkansas classifies it as a Schedule 1 controlled substance.
NBC4 reported Tuesday that drug paraphernalia was found inside Clarke’s home, prompting investigators to examine the possibility of an overdose. Authorities cautioned that the investigation remains ongoing pending toxicology and autopsy results.
Injuries Derailed Brandon Clarke’s NBA Career
Clarke had recently completed his seventh NBA season, all with Memphis, after the Grizzlies selected him with the No. 21 overall pick in the 2019 NBA Draft out of Gonzaga Bulldogs.
He quickly became one of Memphis’ most reliable energy players, earning NBA All-Rookie honors while averaging a career-high 12.1 points and 5.9 rebounds during the 2019-20 season.
The Grizzlies rewarded Clarke with a four-year, $50 million extension in 2022.
But injuries significantly altered the trajectory of his career.
Clarke played just six games during the 2023-24 season after suffering a torn Achilles tendon and appeared in only two games this past season because of calf and knee injuries.
Despite the setbacks, Clarke remained widely respected throughout the organization for his professionalism and positivity.
NBA Community Mourning Brandon Clarke
Tributes continued pouring in across social media Tuesday from teammates, coaches, NBA players and fans around the league.
Clarke had become one of the longest-tenured players on Memphis’ roster and was considered an important locker-room presence during the franchise’s rise into Western Conference contention.
Now, the basketball world waits for more answers surrounding a tragedy that has left the Grizzlies organization and NBA community stunned.
Grizzlies’ Brandon Clarke Death Investigation Takes Troubling Turn After 911 Call Report