{
  "id": 287902,
  "title": "Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke died from heroin, cocaine effects, says LA County medical examiner",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/08/08/memphis-grizzlies-forward-brandon-clarke-died-from-heroin-cocaine",
  "topic": "culture",
  "section": "Culture",
  "published": "2026-08-08T00:06:24.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Live Mint",
    "slug": "live-mint",
    "url": "https://www.livemint.com/news/us-news/memphis-grizzlies-forward-brandon-clarke-died-from-heroin-cocaine-effects-says-la-county-medical-examiner-11786147037247.html"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Memphis Grizzlies' forward Brandon Clarke passed away on May 11 due to a combination of heroin and cocaine, according to the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner. The NBA player, who was 29 years old at the time of his death, was found unconscious in his bedroom and was pronounced dead at the scene by paramedics. The cause and manner of death were officially certified on Friday, as reported by AFP. Clarke's agency, Priority Sports, announced his passing on social media a day later, expressing deep sorrow over the loss. The professional basketball player, a dual American-Canadian citizen, had a successful career with the Grizzlies, averaging 10.2 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 1.3 assists per game over 309 appearances. Clarke's impact on his friends, family, and teammates was profound, leaving a void that will be deeply missed.",
  "summary": "While a deputy medical examiner conducted an examination of the deceased athlete the following day, the cause and manner of death were certified on Friday.",
  "key_points": [
    "Brandon Clarke, 29, died from heroin and cocaine on May 11",
    "Memphis Grizzlies player found unconscious, paramedics pronounced dead",
    "Clarke's agency announced passing, expressed sorrow on social media"
  ],
  "editors_take": "The confirmation of Brandon Clarke's cause of death highlights the tragic circumstances surrounding the young athlete's life and underscores the profound loss felt by his loved ones and teammates.",
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}