NBA forward Clarke's death due to effects of drugs

Brandon Clarke, a Memphis Grizzlies forward, passed away in May as a result of heroin and cocaine overdose, according to the Los Angeles County Department of Medical Examiner. The 29-year-old was discovered unconscious in a bedroom at a residence in San Fernando Valley on May 11, 2026, and was declared dead by paramedics. The medical examiner's office attributed the death to the combined effects of multiple prescription medications, although it did not specify the drugs. The full report will be released at a later date.

Clarke, born in Vancouver, Canada, was a dual citizen of Canada and the USA. He was a first-round draft pick for the Grizzlies in 2019 but only played two games during the 2025-26 season due to injuries. The team expressed their deep sorrow, stating that Clarke was an outstanding teammate and an even better person whose influence on the organization and the Memphis community will be deeply missed.

Clarke had a successful NBA career, playing 309 games and scoring an average of 10.2 points per game. Just before his death, Clarke was arrested in Arkansas on charges of speeding and possession of a controlled substance.