Brandon Clarke Dead at 29: Grizzlies Forward Remembered After 7 Seasons in Memphis

Grizzlies mourn loss of Brandon Clarke, 29

Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke has died at age 29, the team and his agency confirmed Tuesday. Clarke spent all seven NBA seasons with Memphis after being drafted 21st overall in 2019.

Clarke played 323 games for Memphis and was named to the 2020 All-Rookie First Team before his passing was confirmed Tuesday...

Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke has died at 29, according to confirmation from his agency, Priority Sports, and the team on Tuesday.

Details surrounding Clarke’s sudden death on Monday, May 11th, have not been released.

The Grizzlies shared a statement on social media following the announcement.

“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,” the statement read.

“We express our deepest condolences to his family and loved ones during this difficult time.”

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— Memphis Grizzlies (@memgrizz) May 12, 2026

NBA Commissioner Adam Silver, speaking on behalf of the league, said they were “devastated to learn of the passing of Brandon Clarke” after joining the Grizzlies in mourning.

“As one of the longest-tenured members of the Grizzlies, Brandon was a beloved teammate and leader who played the game with enormous passion and grit. Our thoughts and sympathies are with Brandon's family, friends and the Grizzlies organization.”

Clarke entered the NBA as the 21st overall pick in the 2019 Draft. Though initially selected by the Oklahoma City Thunder, he was traded to the Memphis Grizzlies on draft night and spent his entire seven-year NBA career with the franchise.

A member of the NBA All-Rookie First Team, Clarke appeared in 323 regular-season games for Memphis.

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— Priority Sports (@PrioritySports) May 12, 2026

Born in Vancouver, Canada, on September 19, 1996, Clarke relocated to Phoenix, Arizona, at age three. He played college basketball at San Jose State and Gonzaga, earning Third Team All-American honors in 2019 while at Gonzaga.