Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke died as a result of “effects of heroin and cocaine,” the Los Angeles authorities have revealed.
The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner’s office determined that the death occurred accidentally.
The 29-year-old was discovered unconscious in a bedroom at a residence in San Fernando Valley on May 11, 2026, and paramedics declared him dead.
The medical examiner’s office noted that the “combined effects of several prescription medications” were a “major” factor in his death, though the specific medications were not disclosed.
The medical examiner noted that the complete report would be released at a later time.
The player from Canada was selected as a first-round draft choice in 2019, but due to injuries, he participated in just two games during the 2025-26 season.
In their tribute, the Grizzlies expressed they were “heartbroken” by his passing, noting he was an “exceptional teammate and an even finer individual whose influence on the organization and the larger Memphis community will endure.”
Clarke participated in 309 NBA games, with 50 of those as a starter, and averaged 10.2 points per contest.
One month before his passing, Clarke was taken into custody in Arkansas for offenses that encompassed speeding and having a controlled substance.
Clarke was born in Vancouver and held dual citizenship in Canada and the USA.
Following his college basketball career at San Jose State and Gonzaga, he was selected by the Oklahoma City Thunder and traded to the Grizzlies shortly thereafter.
