The death of Brandon Clarke, a forward for the Memphis Grizzlies, is being investigated as a potential overdose, according to TMZ. The 29-year-old NBA player passed away on Monday, and authorities are looking into the circumstances surrounding his death.
Law enforcement sources told TMZ that drug paraphernalia was found at the residence where Clarke was staying. An autopsy is pending to determine the official cause of death. The Los Angeles Fire Department responded to a medical emergency on Monday, but paramedics found Clarke already deceased, the outlet reported.
The Memphis Grizzlies and Priority Sports, the agency representing Clarke, confirmed his passing on Tuesday. “He was an incredible teammate and an even better person. His impact on this organization and the city of Memphis will never be forgotten,” the team said in a statement.
Born in Vancouver, Canada, Clarke entered the NBA in 2019 after being selected 21st overall by the Oklahoma City Thunder in the draft. He was traded to the Grizzlies two weeks later and spent seven seasons with the franchise. Over his career, he averaged 10.2 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 1.3 assists per game.
In his personal life, Clarke faced legal troubles. On April 1, he was arrested in Arkansas on charges including possession and trafficking of a controlled substance, fleeing police, speeding, and improper passing. He was released the following day after posting bail. At the time of his arrest, Clarke was allegedly in possession of kratom, a plant from Southeast Asia that is often marketed as a natural remedy for pain, cough, diarrhea, anxiety, and depression. However, kratom is illegal in Arkansas and several other states. Between 2015 and 2025, there were 233 deaths linked to kratom in the U.S., according to reports.