Breaking: Tragic NBA News as Grizzlies Forward Brandon Clarke, 29, Passes Away

Shocking and tragic news for the basketball world, as 29-year-old Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke has passed away.

RIP Brandon Clarke. He was 29. pic.twitter.com/89FLiEPx7d
— Legion Hoops (@LegionHoops) May 12, 2026

Last month, Clarke was arrested in Arkansas on drug and speeding charges.

He played only 2 games for the Grizzlies this past season due to a severe right calf strain sustained in December, following his recovery from a previous knee injury.

The Grizzlies statement on the tragic passing of Brandon Clarke:

"We are heartbroken by the tragic loss of Brandon Clarke. Brandon was an outstanding teammate and even better person whose impact on the organization and the greater Memphis community will not be forgotten. We… pic.twitter.com/jXcS4rixL2
— NBARetweet (@RTNBA) May 12, 2026

Clarke's death is currently being investigated as a possible overdose, according to USA Today.

On April 1st, he was arrested for improper passing, possession of a controlled substance, fleeing, exceeding the speed limit and trafficking a controlled substance after an alleged miles-long chase.

In addition to alleged drug troubles, injuries had derailed Clarke's career in recent years, as in addition to playing only two games this past season, he played in just six games during the 2023-24 season due to a torn Achilles.

The Grizzlies have released a statement:

"We are heartbroken by the tragic loss of Brandon Clarke. 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 was a first-round pick by Memphis in 2019, and was a promising power forward. He finished 4th in Rookie of the Year balloting, and earned all-rookie honors after averaging 12.1 points per game and 5.9 rebounds. He went on to average 10.2 ppg and 5.5 boards over his seven-year career.

He signed a four-year, $50 million contract in 2022.