Brandon Clarke, Memphis Grizzlies forward, dies at 29

TL;DR

Brandon Clarke, forward for the Memphis Grizzlies, has died at the age of 29. He spent all seven seasons of his NBA career with the Grizzlies after being drafted in 2019.

Key points

Brandon Clarke died at 29 years old
He was a forward for the Memphis Grizzlies
Clarke was drafted 21st overall in the 2019 NBA Draft
He played seven seasons with the Grizzlies
His career was affected by multiple injuries

Mentioned in this story

Vancouver

Brandon ClarkeMemphis Grizzlies

MEMPHIS, TN - NOVEMBER 24: Brandon Clarke #15 of the Memphis Grizzlies poses for a portrait on November 24, 2025 at FedExForum in Memphis, Tennessee. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE (Photo by Joe Murphy/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke died on Tuesday afternoon. He was 29 years old. ESPN reporter Shams Charania broke the news. Clarke spent all seven of his NBA seasons with the Memphis Grizzlies after being the No. 21 overall pick in the 2019 NBA Draft. Clarke’s journey to being a first-round pick was an inspiring story: he spent two seasons at San Jose State where he had a broken three-point shot, transferred to Gonzaga and blossomed after sitting out a year. Clarke’s NBA career was plagued by injuries. He only played two games this season. Clarke tore his left Achilles tendon in March 2023, suffered a PCL sprain in his right knee in 2025, and then was limited by a calf strain this season. He suffered from knee synovitis just before this season. Clarke was . He was charged with possession of a controlled substance, fleeing and exceeding the speed limit, and trafficking a controlled substance. The Grizzlies confirmed Clarke’s passing: Clarke was born in 1996 in Vancouver, Canada. This is a shocking loss for the Grizzlies, and the NBA community. Clark’s cause of death is not known at this time. This story will updated as it develops.

Q&A

What caused Brandon Clarke's death?

The cause of Brandon Clarke's death is currently unknown.

How long did Brandon Clarke play for the Memphis Grizzlies?

Brandon Clarke played for the Memphis Grizzlies for all seven seasons of his NBA career.

What injuries did Brandon Clarke suffer during his career?

Brandon Clarke faced multiple injuries, including a torn Achilles tendon, a PCL sprain, and a calf strain.