Following Brandon Clarke's death, a Memphis nonprofit, ARISE2Read, experienced a significant increase in donations. Clarke had recently participated in a community event supporting literacy at KIPP Collegiate K-8 School.
Key points
Brandon Clarke's death led to increased donations for ARISE2Read.
Clarke attended a literacy event at KIPP Collegiate K-8 School.
He donated $1,500 to support literacy initiatives.
Memphis nonprofit sees surge in donation's following Brandon Clarke's death
One of Brandon Clarke’s final community appearances as a member of the Memphis Grizzlies came Sept. 18, 2025, at KIPP Collegiate K-8 School.
Clarke attended in support of Literacy Awareness Month, partnering with the Grizzlies to donate to ARISE2Read, a local nonprofit focused on improving literacy skills, providing faith-based support and building one-on-one connections with students.
Before Clarke entered the classroom, students learned about his birthday. It was on Sept. 19, but the kids had a chance to celebrate with him early. They enthusiastically sang “Happy Birthday” to Clarke as he stood before them holding a $1,500 check for ARISE2Read.
As news of Clarke’s death spread, Grizzlies fans and the Memphis community searched for ways to honor his memory. One way has been through supporting ARISE2Read. Grizzlies star Ja Morant was among those who shared the link to ARISE2Read's page, urging others to donate.
Memphis Grizzlies’ Brandon Clarke (15) floats the ball against the Miami Heat’s Bam Adebayo (13) during a game on Saturday, March 15, 2025 at the FedEx Forum in Memphis, Tenn.
Q&A
What nonprofit received donations after Brandon Clarke's death?
ARISE2Read, a Memphis nonprofit focused on improving literacy skills, received a surge in donations following Brandon Clarke's death.
What event did Brandon Clarke attend shortly before his death?
Brandon Clarke attended a community event at KIPP Collegiate K-8 School on September 18, 2025, supporting Literacy Awareness Month.
How much did Brandon Clarke donate to ARISE2Read?
Brandon Clarke donated $1,500 to ARISE2Read during his visit to the school.
What was the purpose of Brandon Clarke's community appearance?
The purpose of Brandon Clarke's community appearance was to support Literacy Awareness Month and promote literacy among students.
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Memphis Grizzlies’ Brandon Clarke (15) floats the ball against the Cleveland Cavaliers’ Evan Mobley (4) on Friday, March. 14, 2025 at the FedEx Forum in Memphis, Tenn.
Mar 5, 2025; Memphis, Tennessee, USA; Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke (15) shoots as Oklahoma City Thunder forward Jalen Williams (8) defends during the fourth quarter at FedExForum. Mandatory Credit: Petre Thomas-Imagn Images
Memphis Grizzlies guard Ja Morant embraces teammate Brandon Clarke as they take on the Utah Jazz at FedExForum on Friday, Jan. 28, 2022.
Feb 11, 2025; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke (15) dunks against the Phoenix Suns during the first half at Footprint Center. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-Imagn Images
Jan 30, 2025; Memphis, Tennessee, USA; Memphis Grizzlies forward Jaren Jackson Jr. (right) reacts with forward Brandon Clarke (left) after defeating the Houston Rockets at FedExForum. Mandatory Credit: Petre Thomas-Imagn Images
Jan 30, 2025; Memphis, Tennessee, USA; Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke (15) drives to the basket as Houston Rockets forward Dillon Brooks (9) defends during the first quarter at FedExForum. Mandatory Credit: Petre Thomas-Imagn Images
Grizzlies' Brandon Clarke (15) jumps to pass the ball as it bounces out of bounds during the game between the New Orleans Pelicans and Memphis Grizzlies at FedExForum on Friday, January 24, 2025, in Memphis, Tenn.
Jan. 15: The Memphis Grizzlies' Brandon Clarke (15) drives to the basket while defended by the San Antonio Spurs' Charles Bassey (28) during the first half at Frost Bank Center.
Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clark is defended by Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James and center Anthony Davis during their game at the FedExForum on Tuesday Jan. 5, 2021.
Jan 4, 2025; San Francisco, California, USA; Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke (15) shoots a jumper over Golden State Warriors forward Draymond Green (23) in the third quarter at Chase Center. Mandatory Credit: David Gonzales-Imagn Images
Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke defends a pass by Golden State Warriors forward Andre Iguodala at FedExForum on Monday, March 28, 2022.
Jan 3, 2025; Sacramento, California, USA; Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke (15) passes the ball against Sacramento Kings guard De'Aaron Fox (5) during the first quarter at Golden 1 Center. Mandatory Credit: Sergio Estrada-Imagn Images
ATLANTA, GEORGIA - DECEMBER 21: Brandon Clarke #15 of the Memphis Grizzlies is charged with an offensive foul as he drives over Garrison Mathews #24 of the Atlanta Hawks during the fourth quarter at State Farm Arena on December 21, 2024 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)
Grizzlies' Brandon Clarke (15) collides with Nets’ Noah Clowney (21) as he goes for a layup during the game between the Brooklyn Nets and Memphis Grizzlies at FedExForum in Memphis, Tenn., on Friday, December 13, 2024.
Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke (15) shoots a lay-up during the first half against the Minnesota Timberwolves on Thursday, Jan. 13, 2022, at FedExForum. The Grizzlies defeated the Timberwolves, 116-108.
Nov 23, 2024; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke (15) defends Chicago Bulls center Nikola Vucevic (9) during the first quarter at United Center. Mandatory Credit: David Banks-Imagn Images
Memphis Grizzlies’ Brandon Clarke (15) dunks the ball against the Los Angeles Lakers during a game on Wednesday, Nov. 06, 2024 at the FedEx Forum in Memphis, Tenn.
Dec 17, 2025; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke (15) shoots the ball against the Minnesota Timberwolves in the first half at Target Center. Mandatory Credit: Jesse Johnson-Imagn Images
Oct 30, 2024; Memphis, Tennessee, USA; Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke (15) drives to the basket as Brooklyn Nets forward Cameron Johnson (2) defends during the second half at FedExForum. Mandatory Credit: Petre Thomas-Imagn Images
Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke (15) addresses members of the media during a press conference at FedExForum on Monday, Sept. 27, 2021.
Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke celebrates teammate Jaren Jackson Jr's block against the Utah Jazz at FedExForum on Friday, Jan. 28, 2022.
Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke speaks during a press conference on media day on Monday, Sept. 30, 2024 at the FedEx Forum in Memphis, Tenn.
Grizzlies' Brandon Clarke (15) drives to the basket during the game between the Memphis Grizzlies and Orlando Magic at FedExForum for the Grizzlies home opener on Saturday, October 26, 2024.
Mar 1, 2023; Houston, Texas, USA; Houston Rockets center Alperen Sengun (28) and Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke (15) battle for the ball during the first quarter at Toyota Center. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports
January 20, 2023; Los Angeles, California, USA; Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (6) controls the ball against Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke (15) during the second half at Crypto.com Arena. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports
Mar 27, 2024; Memphis, Tennessee, USA; Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke (15) reacts during the second half against the Los Angeles Lakers at FedExForum. Mandatory Credit: Petre Thomas-USA TODAY Sports
Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke (15) attempts a lay-up against Indiana Pacers forward Jalen Smith (25) and Indiana Pacers guard Chris Duarte (3) on Saturday, Jan. 14, 2023 at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis. The Memphis Grizzlies lead after the half against the Indiana Pacers, 73-58.
Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke (15) guards Brooklyn Nets guard Kyrie Irving (11) during the second half of a game Monday, Oct. 24, 2022, at FedExForum in Memphis. The Grizzlies defeated the Nets 134-124.
Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke catches a pass in front of Golden State Warriors guard Klay Thompson during game three of the second round for the 2022 NBA playoffs at Chase Center on Saturday, May 7, 2022.
Apr 26, 2022; Memphis, Tennessee, USA; Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke (15) blocks Minnesota Timberwolves guard Jordan McLaughlin (6) from shooting the ball during the second half of game five of the first round for the 2022 NBA playoffs at FedExForum. Mandatory Credit: Christine Tannous-USA TODAY Sports
Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke (15) jumps in the air to block Minnesota Timberwolves center Karl-Anthony Towns (32) from passing the ball during the second half of game six of the first round for the 2022 NBA playoffs on Friday, April 29, 2022, at Target Center in Minneapolis, Minn. The Grizzlies defeated the Timberwolves 114-106, meaning they win the round 4-2.
Apr 26, 2022; Memphis, Tennessee, USA; Minnesota Timberwolves forward Anthony Edwards (1) shoots a three-point field goal while being guarded by Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke (15), tying the score in the last few seconds of game five of the first round for the 2022 NBA playoffs at FedExForum. Mandatory Credit: Christine Tannous-USA TODAY Sports
Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke (15) guards New York Knicks guard Evan Fournier (13) as he shoots the ball during the second half of a game Wednesday, Oct. 19, 2022, at FedExForum. The Memphis Grizzlies defeated the New York Knicks 115-112.
Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke defends a shot by Oklahoma City Thunder guard Theo Maledon during their game at the FedExForum in Memphis, Tenn. on Wednesday, Feb. 17, 2021.
Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke dunks the ball in pregame warmups before taking on the the Cleveland Cavaliers at the FedExForum on Wednesday, Oct. 20, 2021.
Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke makes a 3-pointer against the Oklahoma City Thunder during their game at the FedExForum in Memphis, Tenn. on Wednesday, Feb. 17, 2021.
Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke (15) shoots the ball over Golden State Warriors forwards Andre Iguodala (9) and Nemanja Bjelica (8) at FedExForum on Monday, March 28, 2022.
Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke (15) dunks the ball during the first half of game four of the first round for the 2022 NBA playoffs against the Minnesota Timberwolves on Saturday, April 23, 2022, at Target Center in Minneapolis, Minn.
January 20, 2023; Los Angeles, California, USA; Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke (15) dunks for the basket against the Los Angeles Lakers during the first half at Crypto.com Arena. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports
Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke (15) high fives fans after his team wins a game against the New York Knicks on Friday, March 11, 2022, at FedExForum. The Memphis Grizzlies defeated the New York Knicks 118-114.
Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke (15) dunks the ball during the first half of a game against the New York Knicks on Friday, March 11, 2022, at FedExForum.
Mar 3, 2022; Boston, Massachusetts, USA; Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke (15) dunks past Boston Celtics center Robert Williams III (44) during the second quarter at TD Garden. Mandatory Credit: Winslow Townson-USA TODAY Sports
Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke splits the defense of Detroit Pistons guard Cade Cunningham, left, and center Isaiah Stewart at FedExForum on Thursday, Jan. 6, 2022.
The Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke and Ziaire Williams celebrate after getting a win against the Oklahoma City Thunder at the Fedex Forum on Dec. 7, 2022 in Memphis.
Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke attempts a shot over Charlotte Hornets forward Jalen McDaniels during their game at FedExForum on Wednesday, Nov. 10, 2021.
Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke dunks the ball against the Portland Trail Blazers during their game at the FedExForum on Wednesday, February 12, 2020.
Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke (15) drives to the net against Denver Nuggets forward Paul Millsap (4) and forward JaMychal Green (0) in the first quarter Monday, April 19, 2021, at Ball Arena.
Apr 12, 2021; Memphis, Tennessee, USA; Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke (15) dunks the ball in the second quarter against the Chicago Bulls at FedExForum. Mandatory Credit: Nelson Chenault-USA TODAY Sports
Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke defends a shot by San Antonio Spurs guard Dejounte Murray during their game at the FedExForum on Wednesday, Dec. 23, 2020.
Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke blocks a shot by Houston Rockets guard John Wall during their game at the FedExForum on Thursday, Feb. 4, 2021.
Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke passes the ball against the Brooklyn Nets during their game at the FedExForum on Friday Jan. 8, 2021.
Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke defends a shot by Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James during their game at the FedExForum on Tuesday Jan. 5, 2021.
Memphis Grizzliesforward Brandon Clarke shoots the ball over New Orleans Pelicans forward Zion Williamson during their game at the FedExForum on Tuesday, Feb. 16, 2021.
Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke looks to pass the ball as San Antonio Spurs Rudy Gay defends during their game at the FedExForum on Wednesday, Dec. 23, 2020.
Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke dunks the ball against the Portland Trail Blazers during their game at the FedExForum on Wednesday, February 12, 2020.
Grizzlies' Brandon Clarke (15) dunks the ball Tuesday, Jan. 28, 2020, during a game against the Nuggets at FedExForum in downtown Memphis.
Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke dunks the ball against the Utah Jazz at FedExForum on Friday, Jan. 28, 2022.
Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke (15) dunks the ball over Chicago Bulls guard Matt Thomas (21) and center Nikola Vucevic (9) FedExForum on Monday, Jan. 17, 2022.
Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke battles for a rebound with San Antonio Spurs guard Patty Mills during their game at the FedExForum on Monday, Dec. 23, 2019.
Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke (15) passes the ball during a game against Minnesota Timberwolves at the FedExForum on Wednesday, Nov. 6, 2019.
Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke poses for portraits during the team’s Media Day at the FedExForum downtown on Monday, Sept. 30, 2019.
Brandon Clarke from Gonzaga, right, greets NBA Commissioner Adam Silver after being selected as the No. 21 overall pick in the first round of the 2019 NBA Draft on June 20, 2019, at Barclays Center.
Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke (15) warms up before game six of the first round for the 2022 NBA playoffs against the Minnesota Timberwolves on Friday, April 29, 2022, at Target Center in Minneapolis, Minn.
Grizzlies' Brandon Clarke (15) and Cam Spencer (24) laugh and talk together on the bench during open practice at the FedExForum on October 4, 2025, in Memphis, Tenn.
Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke shoots the ball against the Los Angeles Lakers at FedExForum on Wednesday, Dec. 29, 2021.
Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke shoots the ball over Houston Rockets forward PJ Tucker during their game at the FedExForum on Monday, Nov. 4, 2019.
Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke shoots the ball over San Antonio Spurs guard Tre Jones at FedExForum on Friday, Dec. 31, 2021.
Grizzlies' Brandon Clarke (15) passes the ball during the game between the Philadelphia 76ers and the Memphis Grizzlies at FedExForum in Memphis, Tenn., on Saturday, April 6, 2024.
Memphis Grizzlies’ Brandon Clarke (15) floats the ball against the Houston Rockets’ Jock Landale (2) during a game on Thursday, Jan. 30, 2025 at the FedEx Forum in Memphis, Tenn.
Grizzlies' Brandon Clarke (15) sits on the bench during the game between the Boston Celtics and Memphis Grizzlies at FedExForum in Memphis, Tenn., on Monday, March 31, 2025.
Apr 9, 2022; Memphis, Tennessee, USA; Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke (15) keeps hold of the ball from New Orleans Pelicans forward Larry Nance Jr. (22) and New Orleans Pelicans guard Trey Murphy III (25) during the first half of a game at FedExForum. Mandatory Credit: Christine Tannous-USA TODAY Sports
Apr 19, 2022; Memphis, Tennessee, USA; Minnesota Timberwolves guard D'Angelo Russell (0) is guarded by Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke (15) during the first half of game two of the first round for the 2022 NBA playoffs at FedExForum. Mandatory Credit: Christine Tannous-USA TODAY Sports
Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke makes a shot over Detroit Pistons forward Saddiq Bey during their game at the FedExForum in Memphis, Tenn. on Friday, Feb. 19, 2021.
Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke dunks the ball against the Houston Rockets during their game at the FedExForum on Tuesday, Jan. 14, 2020.
Grizzlies' Brandon Clarke (15) walks onto the court for open practice at the FedExForum on October 4, 2025, in Memphis, Tenn.
Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke dunks the ball against the Portland Trail Blazers during their game at the FedExForum on Wednesday, February 12, 2020.
The Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke (15) screams with emotion after dunking the ball against the Minnesota Timberwolves in a game on Feb. 10, 2023 at the Fedex Forum in Memphis.
Grizzlies' Brandon Clarke (15) runs on the court as he is introduced during open practice at FedExForum in Memphis, Tenn., on Sunday, October 6, 2024.
Memphis Grizzlies center Steven Adams (4) and Brandon Clarke (15) react to a defensive stop against the Los Angeles Clippers at FedExForum on Tuesday, Feb. 8, 2022.
Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke shoots the ball over Washington Wizards forward Davis Bertans during their game at the FedExForum on Wednesday, March 10, 2021.
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Memphis Grizzlies’ Brandon Clarke (15) floats the ball against the Miami Heat’s Bam Adebayo (13) during a game on Saturday, March 15, 2025 at the FedEx Forum in Memphis, Tenn.
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Memphis Grizzlies’ Brandon Clarke (15) floats the ball against the Miami Heat’s Bam Adebayo (13) during a game on Saturday, March 15, 2025 at the FedEx Forum in Memphis, Tenn.
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Memphis Grizzlies’ Brandon Clarke (15) floats the ball against the Cleveland Cavaliers’ Evan Mobley (4) on Friday, March. 14, 2025 at the FedEx Forum in Memphis, Tenn.
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Mar 5, 2025; Memphis, Tennessee, USA; Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke (15) shoots as Oklahoma City Thunder forward Jalen Williams (8) defends during the fourth quarter at FedExForum. Mandatory Credit: Petre Thomas-Imagn Images
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Memphis Grizzlies guard Ja Morant embraces teammate Brandon Clarke as they take on the Utah Jazz at FedExForum on Friday, Jan. 28, 2022.
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Feb 11, 2025; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke (15) dunks against the Phoenix Suns during the first half at Footprint Center. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-Imagn Images
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Jan 30, 2025; Memphis, Tennessee, USA; Memphis Grizzlies forward Jaren Jackson Jr. (right) reacts with forward Brandon Clarke (left) after defeating the Houston Rockets at FedExForum. Mandatory Credit: Petre Thomas-Imagn Images
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Jan 30, 2025; Memphis, Tennessee, USA; Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke (15) drives to the basket as Houston Rockets forward Dillon Brooks (9) defends during the first quarter at FedExForum. Mandatory Credit: Petre Thomas-Imagn Images
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Grizzlies' Brandon Clarke (15) jumps to pass the ball as it bounces out of bounds during the game between the New Orleans Pelicans and Memphis Grizzlies at FedExForum on Friday, January 24, 2025, in Memphis, Tenn.
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Jan. 15: The Memphis Grizzlies' Brandon Clarke (15) drives to the basket while defended by the San Antonio Spurs' Charles Bassey (28) during the first half at Frost Bank Center.
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Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clark is defended by Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James and center Anthony Davis during their game at the FedExForum on Tuesday Jan. 5, 2021.
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Jan 4, 2025; San Francisco, California, USA; Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke (15) shoots a jumper over Golden State Warriors forward Draymond Green (23) in the third quarter at Chase Center. Mandatory Credit: David Gonzales-Imagn Images
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Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke defends a pass by Golden State Warriors forward Andre Iguodala at FedExForum on Monday, March 28, 2022.
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Jan 3, 2025; Sacramento, California, USA; Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke (15) passes the ball against Sacramento Kings guard De'Aaron Fox (5) during the first quarter at Golden 1 Center. Mandatory Credit: Sergio Estrada-Imagn Images
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ATLANTA, GEORGIA - DECEMBER 21: Brandon Clarke #15 of the Memphis Grizzlies is charged with an offensive foul as he drives over Garrison Mathews #24 of the Atlanta Hawks during the fourth quarter at State Farm Arena on December 21, 2024 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)
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Grizzlies' Brandon Clarke (15) collides with Nets’ Noah Clowney (21) as he goes for a layup during the game between the Brooklyn Nets and Memphis Grizzlies at FedExForum in Memphis, Tenn., on Friday, December 13, 2024.
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Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke (15) shoots a lay-up during the first half against the Minnesota Timberwolves on Thursday, Jan. 13, 2022, at FedExForum. The Grizzlies defeated the Timberwolves, 116-108.
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Nov 23, 2024; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke (15) defends Chicago Bulls center Nikola Vucevic (9) during the first quarter at United Center. Mandatory Credit: David Banks-Imagn Images
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Memphis Grizzlies’ Brandon Clarke (15) dunks the ball against the Los Angeles Lakers during a game on Wednesday, Nov. 06, 2024 at the FedEx Forum in Memphis, Tenn.
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Dec 17, 2025; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke (15) shoots the ball against the Minnesota Timberwolves in the first half at Target Center. Mandatory Credit: Jesse Johnson-Imagn Images
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Oct 30, 2024; Memphis, Tennessee, USA; Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke (15) drives to the basket as Brooklyn Nets forward Cameron Johnson (2) defends during the second half at FedExForum. Mandatory Credit: Petre Thomas-Imagn Images
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Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke (15) addresses members of the media during a press conference at FedExForum on Monday, Sept. 27, 2021.
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Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke celebrates teammate Jaren Jackson Jr's block against the Utah Jazz at FedExForum on Friday, Jan. 28, 2022.
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Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke speaks during a press conference on media day on Monday, Sept. 30, 2024 at the FedEx Forum in Memphis, Tenn.
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Grizzlies' Brandon Clarke (15) drives to the basket during the game between the Memphis Grizzlies and Orlando Magic at FedExForum for the Grizzlies home opener on Saturday, October 26, 2024.
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Mar 1, 2023; Houston, Texas, USA; Houston Rockets center Alperen Sengun (28) and Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke (15) battle for the ball during the first quarter at Toyota Center. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports
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January 20, 2023; Los Angeles, California, USA; Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (6) controls the ball against Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke (15) during the second half at Crypto.com Arena. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports
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Mar 27, 2024; Memphis, Tennessee, USA; Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke (15) reacts during the second half against the Los Angeles Lakers at FedExForum. Mandatory Credit: Petre Thomas-USA TODAY Sports
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Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke (15) attempts a lay-up against Indiana Pacers forward Jalen Smith (25) and Indiana Pacers guard Chris Duarte (3) on Saturday, Jan. 14, 2023 at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis. The Memphis Grizzlies lead after the half against the Indiana Pacers, 73-58.
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Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke (15) guards Brooklyn Nets guard Kyrie Irving (11) during the second half of a game Monday, Oct. 24, 2022, at FedExForum in Memphis. The Grizzlies defeated the Nets 134-124.
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Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke catches a pass in front of Golden State Warriors guard Klay Thompson during game three of the second round for the 2022 NBA playoffs at Chase Center on Saturday, May 7, 2022.
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Apr 26, 2022; Memphis, Tennessee, USA; Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke (15) blocks Minnesota Timberwolves guard Jordan McLaughlin (6) from shooting the ball during the second half of game five of the first round for the 2022 NBA playoffs at FedExForum. Mandatory Credit: Christine Tannous-USA TODAY Sports
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Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke (15) jumps in the air to block Minnesota Timberwolves center Karl-Anthony Towns (32) from passing the ball during the second half of game six of the first round for the 2022 NBA playoffs on Friday, April 29, 2022, at Target Center in Minneapolis, Minn. The Grizzlies defeated the Timberwolves 114-106, meaning they win the round 4-2.
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Apr 26, 2022; Memphis, Tennessee, USA; Minnesota Timberwolves forward Anthony Edwards (1) shoots a three-point field goal while being guarded by Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke (15), tying the score in the last few seconds of game five of the first round for the 2022 NBA playoffs at FedExForum. Mandatory Credit: Christine Tannous-USA TODAY Sports
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Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke (15) guards New York Knicks guard Evan Fournier (13) as he shoots the ball during the second half of a game Wednesday, Oct. 19, 2022, at FedExForum. The Memphis Grizzlies defeated the New York Knicks 115-112.
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Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke defends a shot by Oklahoma City Thunder guard Theo Maledon during their game at the FedExForum in Memphis, Tenn. on Wednesday, Feb. 17, 2021.
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Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke dunks the ball in pregame warmups before taking on the the Cleveland Cavaliers at the FedExForum on Wednesday, Oct. 20, 2021.
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Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke makes a 3-pointer against the Oklahoma City Thunder during their game at the FedExForum in Memphis, Tenn. on Wednesday, Feb. 17, 2021.
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Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke (15) shoots the ball over Golden State Warriors forwards Andre Iguodala (9) and Nemanja Bjelica (8) at FedExForum on Monday, March 28, 2022.
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Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke (15) dunks the ball during the first half of game four of the first round for the 2022 NBA playoffs against the Minnesota Timberwolves on Saturday, April 23, 2022, at Target Center in Minneapolis, Minn.
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January 20, 2023; Los Angeles, California, USA; Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke (15) dunks for the basket against the Los Angeles Lakers during the first half at Crypto.com Arena. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports
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Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke (15) high fives fans after his team wins a game against the New York Knicks on Friday, March 11, 2022, at FedExForum. The Memphis Grizzlies defeated the New York Knicks 118-114.
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Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke (15) dunks the ball during the first half of a game against the New York Knicks on Friday, March 11, 2022, at FedExForum.
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Mar 3, 2022; Boston, Massachusetts, USA; Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke (15) dunks past Boston Celtics center Robert Williams III (44) during the second quarter at TD Garden. Mandatory Credit: Winslow Townson-USA TODAY Sports
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Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke splits the defense of Detroit Pistons guard Cade Cunningham, left, and center Isaiah Stewart at FedExForum on Thursday, Jan. 6, 2022.
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The Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke and Ziaire Williams celebrate after getting a win against the Oklahoma City Thunder at the Fedex Forum on Dec. 7, 2022 in Memphis.
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Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke attempts a shot over Charlotte Hornets forward Jalen McDaniels during their game at FedExForum on Wednesday, Nov. 10, 2021.
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Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke dunks the ball against the Portland Trail Blazers during their game at the FedExForum on Wednesday, February 12, 2020.
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Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke (15) drives to the net against Denver Nuggets forward Paul Millsap (4) and forward JaMychal Green (0) in the first quarter Monday, April 19, 2021, at Ball Arena.
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Apr 12, 2021; Memphis, Tennessee, USA; Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke (15) dunks the ball in the second quarter against the Chicago Bulls at FedExForum. Mandatory Credit: Nelson Chenault-USA TODAY Sports
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Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke defends a shot by San Antonio Spurs guard Dejounte Murray during their game at the FedExForum on Wednesday, Dec. 23, 2020.
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Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke blocks a shot by Houston Rockets guard John Wall during their game at the FedExForum on Thursday, Feb. 4, 2021.
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Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke passes the ball against the Brooklyn Nets during their game at the FedExForum on Friday Jan. 8, 2021.
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Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke defends a shot by Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James during their game at the FedExForum on Tuesday Jan. 5, 2021.
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Memphis Grizzliesforward Brandon Clarke shoots the ball over New Orleans Pelicans forward Zion Williamson during their game at the FedExForum on Tuesday, Feb. 16, 2021.
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Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke looks to pass the ball as San Antonio Spurs Rudy Gay defends during their game at the FedExForum on Wednesday, Dec. 23, 2020.
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Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke dunks the ball against the Portland Trail Blazers during their game at the FedExForum on Wednesday, February 12, 2020.
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Grizzlies' Brandon Clarke (15) dunks the ball Tuesday, Jan. 28, 2020, during a game against the Nuggets at FedExForum in downtown Memphis.
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Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke dunks the ball against the Utah Jazz at FedExForum on Friday, Jan. 28, 2022.
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Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke (15) dunks the ball over Chicago Bulls guard Matt Thomas (21) and center Nikola Vucevic (9) FedExForum on Monday, Jan. 17, 2022.
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Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke battles for a rebound with San Antonio Spurs guard Patty Mills during their game at the FedExForum on Monday, Dec. 23, 2019.
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Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke (15) passes the ball during a game against Minnesota Timberwolves at the FedExForum on Wednesday, Nov. 6, 2019.
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Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke poses for portraits during the team’s Media Day at the FedExForum downtown on Monday, Sept. 30, 2019.
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Brandon Clarke from Gonzaga, right, greets NBA Commissioner Adam Silver after being selected as the No. 21 overall pick in the first round of the 2019 NBA Draft on June 20, 2019, at Barclays Center.
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Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke (15) warms up before game six of the first round for the 2022 NBA playoffs against the Minnesota Timberwolves on Friday, April 29, 2022, at Target Center in Minneapolis, Minn.
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Grizzlies' Brandon Clarke (15) and Cam Spencer (24) laugh and talk together on the bench during open practice at the FedExForum on October 4, 2025, in Memphis, Tenn.
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Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke shoots the ball against the Los Angeles Lakers at FedExForum on Wednesday, Dec. 29, 2021.
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Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke shoots the ball over Houston Rockets forward PJ Tucker during their game at the FedExForum on Monday, Nov. 4, 2019.
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Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke shoots the ball over San Antonio Spurs guard Tre Jones at FedExForum on Friday, Dec. 31, 2021.
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Grizzlies' Brandon Clarke (15) passes the ball during the game between the Philadelphia 76ers and the Memphis Grizzlies at FedExForum in Memphis, Tenn., on Saturday, April 6, 2024.
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Memphis Grizzlies’ Brandon Clarke (15) floats the ball against the Houston Rockets’ Jock Landale (2) during a game on Thursday, Jan. 30, 2025 at the FedEx Forum in Memphis, Tenn.
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Grizzlies' Brandon Clarke (15) sits on the bench during the game between the Boston Celtics and Memphis Grizzlies at FedExForum in Memphis, Tenn., on Monday, March 31, 2025.
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Apr 9, 2022; Memphis, Tennessee, USA; Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke (15) keeps hold of the ball from New Orleans Pelicans forward Larry Nance Jr. (22) and New Orleans Pelicans guard Trey Murphy III (25) during the first half of a game at FedExForum. Mandatory Credit: Christine Tannous-USA TODAY Sports
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Apr 19, 2022; Memphis, Tennessee, USA; Minnesota Timberwolves guard D'Angelo Russell (0) is guarded by Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke (15) during the first half of game two of the first round for the 2022 NBA playoffs at FedExForum. Mandatory Credit: Christine Tannous-USA TODAY Sports
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Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke makes a shot over Detroit Pistons forward Saddiq Bey during their game at the FedExForum in Memphis, Tenn. on Friday, Feb. 19, 2021.
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Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke dunks the ball against the Houston Rockets during their game at the FedExForum on Tuesday, Jan. 14, 2020.
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Grizzlies' Brandon Clarke (15) walks onto the court for open practice at the FedExForum on October 4, 2025, in Memphis, Tenn.
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Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke dunks the ball against the Portland Trail Blazers during their game at the FedExForum on Wednesday, February 12, 2020.
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The Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke (15) screams with emotion after dunking the ball against the Minnesota Timberwolves in a game on Feb. 10, 2023 at the Fedex Forum in Memphis.
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Grizzlies' Brandon Clarke (15) runs on the court as he is introduced during open practice at FedExForum in Memphis, Tenn., on Sunday, October 6, 2024.
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Memphis Grizzlies center Steven Adams (4) and Brandon Clarke (15) react to a defensive stop against the Los Angeles Clippers at FedExForum on Tuesday, Feb. 8, 2022.
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Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke shoots the ball over Washington Wizards forward Davis Bertans during their game at the FedExForum on Wednesday, March 10, 2021.
Executive director Dr. La Tonya Mouzon told The Commercial Appeal on May 13 that the nonprofit has received 90 more donations since Clarke's death.
“We have seen an outpouring of support from people who were touched by his story and his connection to ARISE2Read,” Mouzon said. “While the circumstances are incredibly difficult, we are grateful that his legacy is inspiring others to invest in literacy and in the future of our children. It is both humbling and emotional to see people choose to honor him in this way.”
When Clarke walked into the classroom that September day, many students were confused, trying to figure out exactly who the guest was.
“Number 15!” Clarke repeated as he made his way to the front of the room.
Moments like those may ultimately resonate just as deeply with Memphis youth as the alley-oops and tear-drop floaters Clarke delivered over seven seasons with the Grizzlies.
“Meeting Brandon Clarke was a truly special moment for our students and team at ARISE2Read,” Mouzon said. “He was incredibly kind, present, and intentional with every interaction. What stood out most was how natural he was with the children — encouraging them, listening to them, and making each child feel seen and valued. It wasn’t just a visit; it was a meaningful connection that left a lasting impression on everyone involved.”
