Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke, 29, died on May 11 from the combined effects of heroin and cocaine, the Los Angeles County Department of Medical Examiner announced Friday. His death was ruled accidental.
Clarke was found dead inside a home near Los Angeles on the date of his death. A person familiar with the investigation told The Associated Press that drug paraphernalia was recovered at the residence, though details were not publicly released at the time.
Clarke’s Contract and Career
Clarke was under contract with the Grizzlies through the 2026-27 season after completing seven seasons with the team. He began his professional career at Gonzaga University before joining Memphis in the NBA. Clarke had missed significant playing time in recent years due to injuries, including a torn Achilles tendon in 2023 and two procedures on his right knee in 2025. During the past season, he was sidelined with a strained right calf and was declared out for the year.
Prior Legal Incident
Approximately six weeks before his death, Clarke was arrested in Arkansas on charges of speeding, reckless driving, and possessing a controlled substance. Bodycam footage obtained by CBS News in July showed Clarke driving a new Corvette at over 100 mph when pulled over. Officers searched his vehicle and found several large bags of clear capsules containing a green powdery substance, which Clarke claimed was kratom, a herbal extract used for pain management. Kratom has been described by some as "gas station heroin" due to its potential for addiction in certain forms.
The Grizzlies issued a statement following Clarke’s death, expressing grief and acknowledging his impact on the organization and Memphis community. The team stated, “Brandon was an outstanding teammate and an even better person whose impact on the organization and the greater Memphis community will not be forgotten.”