Brandon Clarke, Grizzlies forward and former Gonzaga star, dead at 29

Brandon Clarke, a forward for the Memphis Grizzlies and former Gonzaga standout, has died at 29, his agency Priority Sports confirmed on Tuesday. The agency described Clarke as a beloved figure whose kindness and support for friends and family left a lasting impact. The Grizzlies issued a statement calling him an outstanding teammate and person, while NBA commissioner Adam Silver praised his passion and leadership on the court. Clarke was drafted by the Grizzlies with the 21st overall pick in the 2019 NBA Draft and spent his entire seven-season career with the team, making him the longest-tenured player alongside Ja Morant. He showed early promise in his rookie season, averaging 12.1 points and 5.9 rebounds, finishing fourth in Rookie of the Year voting. Though he never became a full-time starter, Clarke earned Sixth Man of the Year consideration in 2021-22 and signed a four-year, $52 million extension in 2022. Injuries, however, derailed his career progression. Clarke missed the 2022-23 season after tearing his left Achilles and appeared in only six games the following season. His 2024-25 campaign saw a career-low 8.3 points per game, and he missed the final 12 regular-season games due to a PCL injury. A knee injury over the offseason led to surgery, and he returned for just two games before a calf injury ended his season. Clarke was arrested in Arkansas in April on allegations of reckless driving, speeding, and possessing over 200 grams of kratom, a controlled substance. Authorities reported the substance was found in his car at the time of the incident. An autopsy will determine the official cause of death, though preliminary reports suggest a possible drug overdose. Clarke’s impact extended beyond basketball, touching the lives of teammates, coaches, and fans. The Grizzlies, his agency, and the NBA community have mourned his loss, emphasizing his kindness and the void he leaves behind.