Memphis Grizzlies star forward Brandon Clarke has died at the age of 29, his agency, Priority Sports, announced on Tuesday. His death is being investigated as a possible drug overdose.

“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,” the agency said in a statement.

“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.

“Everyone loved BC because he was always there as the most supportive friends 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.”

The Grizzlies also released a statement on Tuesday afternoon:

“We are heartbroken by the tragic loss of Brandon Clarke. Brandon was an outstanding teammate and an even better person whose impact on the organization and the greater Memphis community will not be forgotten. We express our deepest condolences to his family and loved ones during this difficult time.”

In September 2025, Clarke celebrated his 29th birthday by giving back to the local community in Memphis, Tennessee.

Clarke surprised a classroom of second graders at Kipp Collegiate Elementary School by donating $1,500 to support literacy awareness, books, and resources. He donated another $2,000 for ARise2Read.

The 6-ft-8 power forward was a standout player at Desert Vista High School in Phoenix, Arizona. He played college basketball at San Jose State (2015–2017) and Gonzaga (2018–2019).

The Oklahoma City Thunder selected Clarke No. 21 overall in the 2019 NBA Draft. OKC traded him to the Grizzlies a few weeks later. He played 7 seasons with the Grizzlies.