Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke has died at the age of 29, the team, his agency Priority Sports, and the NBA announced on Tuesday.
The Grizzlies released a statement expressing profound sorrow: “We are heartbroken by the tragic loss of Brandon Clarke. 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.”
Priority Sports, Clarke’s agency, shared their devastation: “We are all beyond devastated by the passing of Brandon Clarke. He was so loved by all of us here, and everyone whose life he touched. He was the gentlest soul who was the first to be there for all of his friends and family. … Everyone loved BC, because he was always there as the most supportive friend you could ever imagine. … It’s just impossible to put into words how much he’ll be missed.”
Injuries had limited his playing time in recent seasons, including a torn Achilles in 2023 and a knee injury earlier this year. He had one year remaining on his contract with the Grizzlies.
Tributes poured in from across the NBA community, with former teammates and coaches highlighting Clarke’s character, positive energy, and community involvement. The news comes weeks after Clarke faced legal issues in Arkansas related to drug and traffic charges from an April incident, for which he was scheduled for a court appearance later this week.
