In brief
Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke was found unresponsive at a Los Angeles home on May 11, 2026. Los Angeles County Medical Examiner announced the death was an accidental overdose of heroin and cocaine, with prescription medications also listed as a significant contributor. The 29‑year‑old Canadian‑born player had played only two games in the 2025‑26 season due to injuries. The Grizzlies mourned his loss, citing his impact on the team and community.
Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke was found unresponsive on May 11, 2026, in a bedroom at a Los Angeles house. Paramedics pronounced him dead at the scene.
The County of Los Angeles Department of Medical Examiner ruled the death accidental. An official statement cited the effects of heroin and cocaine as the primary cause, while noting that combined effects of multiple prescription medications were a significant contributor. The full report will be released later this year.
The 29‑year‑old was a first‑round draft pick in 2019 and had played 309 NBA games, averaging 10.2 points per game. In the 2025‑26 season, injuries limited him to only two appearances.
Clarke’s death came after a month’s arrest in Arkansas on charges that included speeding and possession of a controlled substance. The Grizzlies released a statement mourning his loss and praising him as an outstanding teammate and a good person whose impact on the team and the broader Memphis community will not be forgotten.
Born in Vancouver, Clarke held dual Canadian and U.S. citizenship. He played college basketball at San Jose State and Gonzaga before being drafted by the Oklahoma City Thunder and traded to the Grizzlies shortly thereafter.
