by Kendal Lewis
Tue, May 12, 2026 at 1:19 PM
Updated Wed, May 13, 2026 at 7:59 AM
Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke (15) shoots a free throw during an NBA Cup basketball game against the Denver Nuggets, Nov. 19, 2024, in Memphis, Tenn. (AP Photo/Brandon Dill, File)
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WZTV) — Former Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke has died at the age of 29, sources tell FOX 17 News.
Clarke, a Canadian-born NBA player, was drafted by the Grizzlies in 2019 and became part of Memphis’ young core alongside Ja Morant, Desmond Bane, Dillon Brooks, and Jaren Jackson Jr. He also played on the franchise’s record-setting 2021-22 team.
In recent years, Clarke dealt with several injuries that limited his playing time.
Clarke was found dead around 5 p.m. on Monday, May 11, and drug paraphernalia was found at the scene, according to the Los Angeles Fire Department. Additional details surrounding his death have not yet been fully released.
Clarke had recently established his own foundation and was committed to pouring into the Memphis community with multiple community events occurring before his untimely death.
The Grizzlies released the following statement on Tuesday afternoon.
> 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.
_This is a developing story. Check back with FOX 17 News for updates._