Memphis Grizzlies star Ja Morant paid tribute to longtime teammate Brandon Clarke after news broke Tuesday that Clarke had passed away at age 29. Morant shared the emotional message on his Instagram Story alongside photos and videos featuring Clarke, Jaren Jackson Jr., and memories from their time together in Memphis.
“This hurt BC 💔 love you broski. Gone way too soon. It's bigger than basketball.”
"This hurt BC 💔 love you broski. Gone way too soon. It's bigger than basketball."
Ja Morant on his IG story following the passing of former Grizzlies teammate Brandon Clarke.
(via @JaMorant) pic.twitter.com/Lbpk3uQIk3
— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) May 12, 2026
The Grizzlies organization and Priority Sports confirmed Clarke’s death after the seven-year NBA veteran died Monday evening in the Los Angeles area. The sudden loss reverberated shockwaves throughout the NBA community, with teammates, league officials, and fans mourning one of the team's most respected players and locker-room leaders.
Tributes continued pouring in Tuesday following news of Clarke’s passing, including statements from the Grizzlies organization, NBA Commissioner Adam Silver, and the National Basketball Players Association. Memphis remembered Clarke as a beloved teammate whose influence extended far beyond the court.
Selected 21st overall in the 2019 NBA Draft, Clarke spent his entire NBA career with the Grizzlies and became an important part of Memphis’ rise alongside Morant. He appeared in 309 regular-season games, averaging 10.2 points and 5.5 rebounds while earning NBA All-Rookie First Team honors in 2020. Known for his athleticism, relentless energy, and efficiency around the basket, the former Gonzaga standout remained a fan favorite throughout his seven seasons in Memphis despite injury setbacks that limited him to just two games during the 2025–26 season.
Authorities have not officially released a cause of death. Multiple reports claim that emergency responders went to Clarke’s Los Angeles-area residence Monday night, and the investigation continues while an autopsy is pending.
Memphis Grizzlies star Ja Morant paid tribute to longtime teammate Brandon Clarke after news broke Tuesday that Clarke had passed away at age 29. Morant shared the emotional message on his Instagram Story alongside photos and videos featuring Clarke, Jaren Jackson Jr. , and memories from their time together in Memphis.