Brandon Clarke, one of the longest-tenured members of the Memphis Grizzlies, has tragically passed away at the age of 29.
Multiple reports have confirmed the passing of Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke at the age of 29. Clarke's cause of death has not been revealed as of press time.
— Memphis Grizzlies (@memgrizz) May 12, 2026
Clarke spent his entire NBA career with the Grizzlies, who acquired him draft night in 2019. He averaged 10.2 points and 5.5 rebounds in 309 appearances. He was named the 21st pick of that draft by Oklahoma City after a strong collegiate career at San Jose State and Gonzaga.
"We are heartbroken by the tragic loss of Brandon Clarke," the Grizzlies said in a team statement. "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."
After transferring to Spokane for his senior season, Clarke rose the draft ranks with an All-American senior tour that also produced Defensive Player of the Year and Newcomer of the Year honors in the West Coast Conference. Clarke posted a 36-point, five-block outing in the second round win over Baylor, becoming just the third player in tournament history to earn at least 35 tallies and five rejections in the same game (joining Shaquille O'Neal and David Robinson).
Clarke was named the Summer League MVP upon his unofficial Association entry and averaged 12.1 points and 5.9 rebounds in his debut tour. Those would both prove to be career-highs and would be named to the All-Rookie first team next to top pick Zion Williamson and Memphis teammate Ja Morant.
Injuries ate away at Clarke's final seasons: he played just six games in 2023-24 after tearing his left Achilles and just two this time around due to knee issues. Clarke did play 64 games last year but missed out on the Grizzlies' brief playoff run due to a PCL sprain.
"We are devastated to learn of the passing of Brandon Clarke," NBA commissioner Adam Silver said in a statement. "As one of the longest-tenured members of the Grizzlies, Brandon was a beloved teammate and leader who played the game with enormous passion and grit. Our thoughts and sympathies are with Brandon's family, friends and the Grizzlies organization."
Clarke is the 15th player to pass away while stationed on an active NBA roster, the last being Bryce DeJean-Jones of the New Orleans Pelicans in 2016.
This story will be updated as event warrant
Geoff Magliocchetti is on X @GeoffJMags
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