Brandon Clarke: Memphis Grizzlies forward death due to effects of drug use
BBC • • sports
Key Points:
- Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke's death in May 2026 was ruled accidental, caused by the combined effects of heroin, cocaine, and multiple prescription medications, according to the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner.
- Clarke, 29, was found unresponsive in a San Fernando Valley home on May 11 and pronounced dead by paramedics; the full medical report is pending.
- The Canada-born player had a limited 2025-26 season due to injuries, playing only two games, and had been arrested a month before his death on charges including speeding and possession of a controlled substance.
- Clarke played 309 NBA games with an average of 10.2 points per game, was a first-round draft pick in 2019, and was praised by the Grizzlies for his positive impact on the team and community.
- Born in Vancouver, Clarke held dual Canadian and US citizenship and played college basketball at San Jose State and Gonzaga before being drafted by the Oklahoma City Thunder and traded to Memphis.
