Memphis Grizzlies player Brandon Clarke dead at the age of 29, team says

The team confirmed his death.

ByMeredith Deliso ABCNews logo
Tuesday, May 12, 2026 8:23PM
Memphis Grizzlies player Brandon Clarke dies at age 29, team says

Memphis Grizzlies player Brandon Clarke has died, the team confirmed on Tuesday. He was 29.

"We are heartbroken by the tragic loss of Brandon Clarke," the team said in a statement on social media. "Brandon was an outstanding teammate and an even better person whose impact on the organization and the great Memphis community will not be forgotten."

The circumstances surrounding his death are not known at this time.

Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke (15) plays in the first half of an Emirates NBA Cup basketball game against the Denver Nuggets Tuesday, Nov. 19, 2024, in Memphis, Tenn.
Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke (15) plays in the first half of an Emirates NBA Cup basketball game against the Denver Nuggets Tuesday, Nov. 19, 2024, in Memphis, Tenn.
AP Photo/Brandon Dill

The Canadian-American forward began playing in the NBA in 2019. He was selected in the first round of the 2019 NBA draft by the Oklahoma City Thunder and immediately traded to Memphis.

He was named to the NBA's All-Rookie First Team in his rookie season.

"As one of the longest-tenured members of the Grizzlies, Brandon was a beloved teammate and leader who played the game with enormous passion and grit," NBA Commissioner Adam Silver said in a statement. "Our thoughts and sympathies are with Brandon's family, friends and the Grizzlies organization."

This is a developing story. Please check back for updates.

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