The NBA community continues to mourn the sudden death of Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke, and Utah Jazz forward Jaren Jackson Jr. delivered one of the most emotional tributes yet — a message that quickly drew reactions from stars across the league, including Ja Morant.
Jackson, who spent the early part of his career alongside Clarke and Morant in Memphis, shared a heartfelt post on Instagram following news of Clarke’s death on Monday in Los Angeles.
“I couldn’t imagine a world where this was even a possibility. I love you forever, brother. This is absolutely devastating. I just wish I could talk to you,” Jackson wrote.
Clarke, 29, was found dead at his Los Angeles-area home. Authorities are investigating the case, with early reports pointing to a possible overdose. An official cause of death has not yet been confirmed pending autopsy and toxicology results.
Jaren Jackson Jr., Brandon Clarke Grizzlies Bond Spanned Core Era
Jackson, Clarke and Morant formed the backbone of Memphis’ rising core before the franchise shifted direction earlier this year.
In a major February 2026 trade deadline move, the Grizzlies dealt Jackson to the Utah Jazz in an eight-player deal that signaled a new phase for the organization. Utah acquired Jackson and additional players, while Memphis received rookie Walter Clayton Jr., three first-round picks and veteran pieces.
Despite the move, Jackson’s bond with Clarke clearly remained strong.
“You were so much to so many and even more to me. I will never have the words to describe what this feels like. I still can’t believe this,” Jackson wrote.
Ja Morant, Jordan Clarkson Lead NBA Reactions to Brandon Clarke’s Death
Jackson’s tribute quickly became a gathering point for players across the NBA, with current and former teammates sharing their grief.
Grizzlies star Ja Morant responded: “love ya brother,” accompanied by a blue heart and a bandaged heart emoji. Earlier, Morant paid tribute to Clarke in a series of Instagram stories.
New York Knicks guard Jordan Clarkson also reacted with a prayer emoji, while former Grizzlies guard Tyus Jones wrote, “Love you Trip,” referencing Jackson’s nickname.
Former NBA guard Quentin Richardson added his own message of support, as the comments section reflected the widespread impact Clarke had across the league.
Brandon Clarke’s Death Shocks Memphis Grizzlies Organization
Clarke’s death sent shockwaves throughout the Grizzlies organization and the NBA.
NBA commissioner Adam Silver described Clarke as “a beloved teammate and leader who played the game with enormous passion and grit,” while Memphis called him “an outstanding teammate and an even better person.”
Clarke had recently completed his seventh NBA season, all with the Grizzlies, though injuries limited him to just eight total games over the past two years following a torn Achilles and subsequent setbacks.
Jaren Jackson Jr. Calls Brandon Clarke ‘My Twin’ in Emotional Tribute
Jackson’s message grew even more personal as he reflected on the loss.
“To your family and friends and everyone, you were always a light and you were always so genuine and real and our friendship went far beyond anything on the court,” he wrote.
“I truly lost my twin. I’m still going to be talking to you always. You will be forever loved and forever missed.”
Even after going their separate ways at the trade deadline, Jackson’s words made clear that the connection built in Memphis endured and that Clarke’s loss is being felt deeply across the NBA.
Jaren Jackson Jr.’s Emotional Brandon Clarke Post Sparks Reaction From Ja Morant