The basketball world is reeling after the sudden passing of Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke. He was just 29 years old.
Clarke, who was selected with the No. 21 overall pick in the 2019 NBA Draft, spent his entire professional career with the Grizzlies. The former Gonzaga Bulldogs star earned first-team All-Rookie honors in 2020 and posted his best season as a rookie, averaging 12.1 points and 5.9 rebounds per game. He missed most of the 2025-26 campaign due to a leg injury.
According to reports out of Memphis, Clarke was pronounced dead on Tuesday, May 12. The cause of death has not yet been released, but authorities are investigating.
Damichael Cole, the Grizzlies beat reporter for the Memphis News, broke the heartbreaking news. “Really sad news out of Memphis. Brandon Clarke has died. He was 29. He was great with kids. He had just established his own foundation and was committed to pouring into the Memphis community. I went to two of those events. Keep his family in prayers,” Cole reported.
Clarke’s agency, Priority Sports, released a statement expressing their devastation. “We are all beyond devastated by the passing of Brandon Clarke. He was so loved by all of us here, and everyone whose life he touched. He was the gentlest soul who was the first to be there for all of his friends and family. Our hearts are so broken as we think about his mom, Whitney, his entire family, and all of his friends and teammates. From high school to San Jose State to Gonzaga to the Grizzlies, Brandon impacted everyone who was part of his life.”
The agency added, “Everyone loved BC because he was always there as the most supportive friend you could ever imagine. He was so unique in the joy he brought to all of those in his life. It’s just impossible to put into words how much he’ll be missed. We love you, BC.”
The Grizzlies organization has not yet issued an official statement, but the team is expected to hold a press conference later today. The NBA community has already begun paying tribute to Clarke, with players and fans sharing memories of his kindness and community work.
Clarke was known for his infectious smile and dedication to the Memphis community. He had recently launched his own foundation, focusing on youth empowerment and education. His sudden death has left a void in the hearts of those who knew him.
Our thoughts are with his mother, Whitney, his family, friends, and teammates during this unimaginably difficult time. May he rest in peace.
