The NBA was shocked to hear Tuesday about the sudden death of Memphis Grizzlies star Brandon Clarke. Clarke was only 29 years old. He is being mourned by the league.
“We are devastated to learn of the passing of Brandon Clarke. 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. Our thoughts and sympathies are with Brandon’s family, friends and the Grizzlies organization,” NBA commission Adam Silver said in a statement.
The Grizzlies and Clarke had a long relationship together. Clarke played for the team since the 2019-2020 season.
“We are heartbroken by the tragic loss of Brandon Clarke. Brandon was an outstanding teammate and an even better person whose impact on the organization and the greater Memphis community will not be forgotten. We express our deepest condolences to his family and loved ones during this difficult time,” the Grizzlies said in a release.
Former NBA players also were shocked to hear the news.
“D***! This Hurts my Heart! Rest In Paradise Brandon Clarke,” Kendrick Perkins posted to X, formerly Twitter.
Clarke played his college basketball at Gonzaga. He was selected 21st overall in the 2019 NBA Draft. During the 2025-26 season, Clarke averaged four points a game for the Grizzlies.
Injuries affected Clarke's NBA career.
“He suffered a season-ending torn Achilles in March 2023 and appeared in only six games the following season,” ESPN reported. “After playing in 64 games in 2024-25, Clarke appeared in just two games this season because of calf and knee injuries.”
A cause of death hasn't been released at time of writing. Grizzlies fans, as well as NBA fans everywhere, are deeply sorry to hear of this loss.
The NBA was shocked to hear Tuesday about the sudden death of Memphis Grizzlies star Brandon Clarke. Clarke was only 29 years old. He is being mourned by the league. “We are devastated to learn of the passing of Brandon Clarke. 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.