CHICAGO — The NBA world was rocked Tuesday when news came out that Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke, 29, had died on Monday.
According to a [report from NBC Los Angeles](https://www.nbclosangeles.com/news/local/memphis-grizzlies-player-brandon-clarke-dies-at-29/3889534/), the Los Angeles Fire Department responded Monday to a 911 call of a medical emergency. Clarke was declared dead at the scene and the incident is being investigated as a possible overdose.
Jaren Jackson Jr., whom the Utah Jazz acquired from Memphis at the trade deadline this year, put a tribute on his instagram on Wednesday, remembering his former teammate.
“This is absolutely devastating,” Jackson wrote, calling Clarke his “twin” and adding, “just wish i could talk to you. You were so much to so many and even more to me.”
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Clarke was drafted in 2019, a year after Jackson, and the two were teammates until Jackson was traded to the Jazz in February.
Team sources familiar with the players and their relationship called the two “best friends” and said that Jackson is understandably experiencing deep grief and sadness.
“You were always a light and you were always so genuine and real and our friendship went far beyond anything on the court,” Jackson wrote in his post on Instagram. “I truly lost my twin. I’m still going to be talking to you always. You will be forever loved and forever missed.”
The NBA, NBPA, Grizzlies and numerous players around the league have released statements and tributes about Clarke and his sudden death.
“We are heartbroken by the tragic passing of our brother, Brandon Clarke,” read a statement from the NBPA. “This is an incredible loss for the brotherhood. We will remember Brandon not only for the immense joy he brought to so many throughout his career, but for the genuine friendships he built far beyond basketball. Our deepest condolences go out to Brandon’s family, friends, and teammates during this difficult time.”