Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke has died at the age of 29. His agency, Priority Sports, announced the news on May 12.
The Grizzlies also released a statement. “We are heartbroken by the tragic loss of Brandon Clarke,” the team said. “Brandon was an outstanding teammate and 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.”
Clarke’s Time with the Grizzlies
Clarke was acquired by the Grizzlies with the 21st pick in the 2019 NBA Draft. He spent his entire NBA career, seven seasons, with the Grizzlies. Along with Ja Morant, Clarke was the longest tenured player on the Grizzlies.
During the 2025-26 season, Clarke only played in two games. He missed the start of the season recovering from a knee injury. A calf injury in December led to him missing the remainder of the season.
Arrest and Community Work
Clarke was arrested in Cross County, Arkansas on April 1. He was charged with trafficking a controlled substance, possession of a controlled substance, fleeing in a vehicle exceeding the speed limit, and improper passing. A day later, he was released on bond.
In 2025, Clarke launched the Brandon Clarke Foundation. The foundation aimed to help families struck by tragedies, moms and others throughout Memphis. The foundation has since donated to ARise2Read, a non-profit organization focused on helping kids enhance their literacy skills outside the classroom. Clarke also hosted a holiday celebration at the Buckman Boys & Girls Club, where the foundation families were provided with food, gifts and games, and Clarke also made a donation.
“Every time I get to talk to kids, I try to get that in their minds that school is important, teachers are important and grades matter,” Clarke said. “I couldn’t have made it here without locking in on reading, writing and all of that stuff.”
College Career
Before joining the Grizzlies, Clarke spent his college career at San Jose State and Gonzaga.
Damichael Cole is the Memphis Grizzlies beat writer for The Commercial Appeal. Contact Damichael at damichael.cole@commercialappeal.com. Follow Damichael on X, formerly known as Twitter, @DamichaelC.