Brandon Clarke's tenure with the Memphis Grizzlies highlights his selflessness and team-first mentality. Despite not being a star player, his contributions were vital during the 2022 NBA playoffs against the Minnesota Timberwolves.
Key points
Brandon Clarke exemplified selflessness with the Grizzlies.
The Grizzlies faced the Timberwolves in the 2022 playoffs.
Karl-Anthony Towns posed a significant challenge for Memphis.
Steven Adams struggled against Towns' versatility.
In the 2022 first-round NBA playoff series against the Minnesota Timberwolves, Karl-Anthony Towns was overwhelming Memphis with his size and mobility.
Steven Adams, one of the Grizzliesā most valuable players that season, struggled to match Townsā versatility. Xavier Tillman Sr. provided an important spark in Game 2, but Memphis still needed something more.
With coach Taylor Jenkins running short on options, the 6-foot-8 forward became a defining force in the series. Clarke delivered 21 points and 15 rebounds in a pivotal Game 5 victory, then followed with 17 points and 11 rebounds in Memphisā Game 6 clincher.
Memphis Grizzliesā Brandon Clarke (15) floats the ball against the Miami Heatās Bam Adebayo (13) during a game on Saturday, March 15, 2025 at the FedEx Forum in Memphis, Tenn.
Memphis Grizzliesā Brandon Clarke (15) floats the ball against the Cleveland Cavaliersā Evan Mobley (4) on Friday, March. 14, 2025 at the FedEx Forum in Memphis, Tenn.
Q&A
What role did Brandon Clarke play for the Memphis Grizzlies?
Brandon Clarke served as a selfless contributor, providing essential support during critical moments, especially in the playoffs.
How did the Grizzlies perform against the Timberwolves in the 2022 playoffs?
The Grizzlies faced challenges against the Timberwolves, particularly with Karl-Anthony Towns dominating the series.
Who were the key players for the Grizzlies during the 2022 playoffs?
Key players included Steven Adams, who struggled against Towns, and Xavier Tillman Sr., who made significant contributions in Game 2.
What challenges did the Grizzlies face in their playoff series against the Timberwolves?
The Grizzlies struggled to match the size and versatility of Karl-Anthony Towns, which impacted their performance.
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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
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 Netsā 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 Grizzliesā 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 teamās 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 Grizzliesā Brandon Clarke (15) floats the ball against the Houston Rocketsā 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 Grizzliesā Brandon Clarke (15) floats the ball against the Miami Heatās Bam Adebayo (13) during a game on Saturday, March 15, 2025 at the FedEx Forum in Memphis, Tenn.
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Memphis Grizzliesā Brandon Clarke (15) floats the ball against the Miami Heatās Bam Adebayo (13) during a game on Saturday, March 15, 2025 at the FedEx Forum in Memphis, Tenn.
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Memphis Grizzliesā Brandon Clarke (15) floats the ball against the Cleveland Cavaliersā 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 Netsā 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 Grizzliesā 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 teamās 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 Grizzliesā Brandon Clarke (15) floats the ball against the Houston Rocketsā 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.
It was one of the signature stretches of Clarkeās seven-year NBA career ā all with the Grizzlies.
Clarke, who died May 11 at age 29, often did whatever his team needed. He thrived in a role outside of the spotlight.
That series against Minnesota captured it perfectly.
In Game 5, Clarkeās tip-out offensive rebound set up Ja Morantās clutch 3-pointer in the final minute. Moments later, after Morantās game-winning layup, Clarke sprinted from the bench and wrapped his teammate in celebration.
In a game where Clarke was an unsung hero, he spent time after the game making Morant sound like Superman.
"I was like, 'Thank God, we got you,' '' he said. "And thank God that you're as good as you are. Because we had just fought so hard, and Ant (Anthony Edwards) hit a really tough three. And I was just like, 'You know, it's fine fine though, because we got 12' and we got a player that can make a really big time finish. And I was like, 'Thank God that we got you there.' "
Clarke was a constant ball of energy on the floor. He was often assigned to do the little things ā rebounding, defending, hustling ā that often made the biggest difference.
That mindset mirrored who he was off the court.
Clarke was known for keeping life simple, staying grounded and focusing on what mattered most to him. As a player, he embraced his strengths: elite energy, rim-running, a reliable floater and defensive versatility. Those were things he was good at from his time as a rookie to his final season.
Few relationships better illustrated Clarkeās impact than his bond with Jaren Jackson Jr.
Drafted a year apart, the two spent nearly seven seasons together in Memphis, building chemistry that extended far beyond basketball. They connected through music, shared creative interests and developed into one of the franchiseās most dependable on-court pairings.
From 2019-24, Clarke and Jackson consistently gave Memphis stability, toughness and cohesion. The Grizzlies had a plus-8.7 net rating when Clarke and Jackson shared the floor. That was higher than either player's respective net rating with Morant or Desmond Bane.
But Clarkeās journey was also marked by adversity.
A torn left Achilles tendon on March 3, 2023 changed the trajectory of his career. In the years that followed, he battled through a high-grade PCL injury and additional setbacks that limited his availability. Over his final three seasons, injuries often kept him from the court.
Even so, Clarke remained present and connected to Memphis.
In 2025, he launched the Brandon Clarke Foundation, channeling his energy into community work. His efforts included supporting ARISE2Read, a nonprofit focused on literacy and mentorship, and hosting events for youth in Memphis.
His final chapter with the Grizzlies had personal challenges, including an April arrest in Arkansas. But for many, that moment does not erase the years of character, generosity and dedication that defined far more of his life.
Clarke played seven seasons with the Grizzlies and spent nearly all of that time as a reserve. His career ends as one of the longest tenured players in franchise history.
That's a rarity in today's NBA, but it speaks to how appreciated and valued Clarke was in Memphis.