Brandon Clarke, Grizzlies Forward, Dies at 29 After Heroin and Cocaine Toxicity

Brandon Clarke, 29, Dead From Accidental Overdose in Los Angeles

Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke died at 29. The Los Angeles medical examiner determined the cause as combined effects of heroin and cocaine, ruling it an accidental overdose.

Clarke spent his entire professional career with Memphis after Portland selected him second overall in the 2019 NBA Draft and immediately traded him to the Grizzlies in the DeMarcus Cousins deal.

From Butler to Gonzaga to the NBA

Clarke transferred from Butler to Gonzaga for his final college season. At Butler he had been a dominant force in the WAC. At Gonzaga he helped the Bulldogs reach the 2017 Final Four and earned All-American honors. His athleticism, above-the-rim finishing, and defensive versatility projected him as a top-2 pick.

A career limited by injuries

Over four NBA seasons, Clarke appeared in 97 games, starting 15. He averaged 6.8 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 0.8 blocks on 54.7 percent shooting. His rookie year produced 27 games and averages of 6.7 points and 4.2 rebounds.

A peroneal nerve issue in his right leg sidelined him for most of his second season. A knee injury then limited him to 12 games in 2021-22. When healthy, Clarke was one of the league's most efficient scorers around the rim. His most productive season came that same year: 60 games and career highs of 10.6 points and 5.1 rebounds.

His physical tools and basketball IQ had never fully translated into sustained on-court success, but he remained active in the league until his death.

Free agency and the G League

Clarke became a restricted free agent in 2023. Memphis tendered a qualifying offer but the two sides could not agree, and he became an unrestricted free agent. He signed with the Phoenix Suns but was waived before the season started. After time in the G League, he returned to Memphis for training camp in 2024.

Aftermath

The coroner's ruling closes questions that surfaced after Clarke's death. The Grizzlies have not announced formal plans, but his jersey will likely be retired or honored by the organization. Teammates, opponents, and analysts have posted condolences on social media.

Clarke was 29, an age when most NBA players are entering their prime. The medical examiner cited no other substances as contributing factors.