Update: A new report from NBC4 claims police are investigating Clarke's death as a possible drug overdose.
NBC4 says that at around 5 p.m. Monday, the Los Angeles Fire Department responded to a medical emergency at a home in the San Fernando Valley. Upon arrival, they found Clarke deceased.
Drug paraphernalia was reportedly found at the scene. An autopsy will be performed.
Earlier: Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke has died at age 29, the team and Clarke's sports agency confirmed on Tuesday. TMZ first reported the news.
"We are heartbroken by the tragic loss of Brandon Clarke," the Grizzlies said in a statement. "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."
Brandon Clarke's death: What we know
At the moment, details regarding Clarke's passing are scarce. The Gonzaga alum had just completed his seventh season with the Grizzlies, though he calk and knee injuries limited Clark to only two games this year.
Clarke's death comes nearly six weeks after the 6-foot-8 forward was arrested in Arkansas on April 1 for speeding and drug offenses. The Cross County Sheriff's Department charged Clarke with improper passing, possession of a controlled substance, fleeing and exceeding the speed limit and trafficking a controlled substance.
Clarke allegedly led police on a miles-long chase with speeds reaching over 100 miles per hour. Upon being pulled over, he was found with over 230 grams of kratom in his possession.
Remembering Brandon Clarke
A standout performer at San Jose State and Gonzaga, Clarke was the 21st overall pick in the first round of the 2019 NBA Draft. As a rookie, he averaged 12.1 points and 5.9 rebounds per game, finishing fourth in NBA Rookie of the Year voting and making the All-Rookie team.
Clarke averaged double-figures in each of his first five seasons in Memphis, but injuries wiped out nearly all of his 2023-24 and 2025-26 campaigns. For his career, Clarke finished with averages of 10.2 points, 5.5 rebounds and 1.3 assists per game in 309 regular season appearances.
"We are all beyond devastated by the passing of Brandon Clarke," Clarke's agency, Priority Sports, said in a statement. "He was so loved by all of us here, and everyone whose life he touched. He was the gentlest soul who was the first to be there for all of his friends and family. Our hearts are so broken as we think about his mom, Whitney, his entire family, and all of his friends and teammates. From high school to San Jose State to Gonzaga to the Grizzlies, Brandon impacted everyone who was part of his life.
"Everyone loved BC because he was always there as the most supportive friend you could ever imagine. He was so unique in the joy he brought to all of those in his life. It's just impossible to put into words how much he'll be missed. We love you, BC."
This post will be updated as more information becomes available.
This story was originally published by Men's Journal on May 12, 2026, where it first appeared in the Sports section. Add Men's Journal as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
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