The sister of late Brandon Clarke publicly addressed his death for the first time this week, thanking supporters as the investigation into the Memphis Grizzlies forward’s passing continues.
Taylor Triplett shared a message on Instagram on May 13, according to Us Weekly, expressing gratitude while acknowledging the difficulty of the moment.
“Thank you so much for the outpouring of love and support,” Triplett wrote. “It means everything to our family… I am just having a hard time finding the words to even talk about this yet and it might be a while before I’m ready.”
She added: “Thank you all for your support and love for my brother.”
Brandon Clarke’s Death Under Investigation
Clarke, 29, was found unresponsive at a Los Angeles-area residence on May 11 and was pronounced dead at the scene.
According to the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner, his cause of death has been listed as “deferred,” indicating that additional testing — including toxicology — is required before a final determination can be made.
Authorities have not announced an official cause or manner of death and have said the investigation remains ongoing.
Reporting from NBC4 Los Angeles indicated that investigators are examining multiple possibilities, including a potential overdose, though no findings have been confirmed.
The Medical Examiner’s office noted that the process could take several weeks.
Family Reaction Emerges After Sudden Loss
Triplett’s message marked the first public statement from Clarke’s immediate family following his death.
She also shared personal photos, including one from her June 2024 wedding, writing that the loss “still doesn’t feel real,” according to Us Weekly.
Clarke is survived by his parents, Steve Clarke and Whitney Triplett, and stepfather Bryan Triplett, who helped raise him.
Grizzlies Teammates React to Brandon Clarke’s Death
Tributes have continued across the NBA, particularly from Clarke’s teammates on the Memphis Grizzlies.
Utah Jazz forward and former Grizzlies teammate Jaren Jackson Jr. described the loss as deeply personal, writing that he “couldn’t imagine a world where this was even a possibility” and calling Clarke someone he would “love forever.”
Ja Morant also reacted, saying the loss was “bigger than basketball.”
“This hurt… Love you broski. Gone way too soon,” Morant wrote.
Guard Scotty Pippen Jr. added: “Rip brother… You will be missed. Gone too soon.”
Forward Jaylen Wells reflected on Clarke’s impact beyond the court.
“Everything he’s went through in the time I’ve been in Memphis, he still came in with a smile on his face and was a light in the locker room,” Wells wrote. “Memphis won’t be the same without you… RIP.”
Brandon Clarke Career and Legacy
Clarke spent all seven of his NBA seasons with Memphis after being selected No. 21 overall in the 2019 NBA Draft out of Gonzaga.
He earned All-Rookie honors and became a consistent contributor, known for his energy, athleticism and presence in the locker room.
Injuries limited Clarke during the 2025–26 season, when he appeared in just two games, but he remained part of the organization’s core.
Investigation Continues as NBA Community Mourns
Additional details about Clarke’s final days have emerged through media reports, though authorities have not confirmed a full timeline.
The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner has stated that the cause of death will remain deferred pending toxicology results.
For now, Clarke’s family and teammates continue to grieve while awaiting answers about the circumstances surrounding his death.
Grizzlies Forward Brandon Clarke’s Sister Breaks Silence as Questions Remain