The NBA is mourning the loss of Brandon Clarke Memphis Grizzlies all of his friends and family.”
NBA Commissioner Adam Silver shared his sympathies: “We are devastated to learn of the passing of Brandon Clarke. 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.”
The National Basketball Players Association added, “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.”
Clarke, drafted 21st overall out of Gonzaga University in the 2019 NBA Draft by the Oklahoma City Thunder and immediately traded to the Grizzlies, had been a key contributor alongside Ja Morant. He earned NBA All-Rookie honors in 2020 and signed a multiyear extension with Memphis in October 2022.
His career, however, was hampered by injuries. Clarke tore his left Achilles tendon in March 2023 and was limited to just 72 games over the past three seasons, including only two appearances this past season. Despite these challenges, he averaged 10.2 points and 5.5 rebounds per game across seven seasons with Memphis.
Earlier this year, Clarke was briefly arrested in Arkansas for speeding and possession of kratom, an herbal supplement, though he was released on bond the following day.
Brandon Clarke’s impact on the Grizzlies and the NBA community extended beyond the stat sheet, and he will be remembered for his leadership, passion, and the genuine relationships he built both on and off the court.
