Ja Morant and the rest of the basketball world are mourning the tragic death of Memphis Grizzlies big man Brandon Clarke.
News emerged on Tuesday afternoon that the 29-year-old died in California in what is reportedly being investigated as a potential overdose. The 6-foot-8 power forward was reportedly declared dead in his residence by responding paramedics. Police reportedly found drug paraphernalia inside Clarke's San Fernando Valley home.
Morant took to social media to share his heartbroken reaction to the death of his teammate.
"This hurt BC love you broski. Gone way too soon," Morant wrote in his Instagram stories, sharing several photos of himself with Clarke. "... it's bigger than basketball."
Morant and Clarke both joined the Grizzlies as rookies in 2019. After successful college careers, Memphis selected them second and 21st overall in the NBA Draft.
They have been teammates for the past seven years, which explains the deep personal connection between the two.
Both Morant and Clarke have battled through injuries over the past several years. In 2023-24, the pair played just 15 games combined for the Grizzlies. Last season, Morant made 20 appearances for Memphis, while Clarke was limited to just two games throughout the campaign.
Clarke had arguably his best season as a rookie. He finished fourth in the 2020 Rookie of the Year race after averaging 12.1 points on 61.8% shooting, 5.9 rebounds and 1.4 assists in 22.4 minutes per contest.
NBA commissioner Adam Silver issued a statement on the untimely passing of the Grizzlies forward.
"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."
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