In brief
The Los Angeles medical examiner has ruled the death of Brandon Clarke, a 29‑year‑old former NBA forward, accidental, citing the combined effects of heroin, cocaine, and prescription medications. Clarke, a Canadian‑born first‑round pick who played 309 NBA games, was found unresponsive in a San Fernando Valley home on 11 May 2026. The Grizzlies mourned his loss, calling him an outstanding teammate and community contributor. The city’s report, released earlier this month, details the substances that contributed to his fatal outcome.
Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke’s death was determined to be caused by the effects of heroin and cocaine, according to a Los Angeles County Department of Medical Examiner report.
The medical examiner announced that the 29‑year‑old was found unresponsive in a bedroom at a household in the San Fernando Valley on May 11, 2026 and was pronounced dead by paramedics.
The death was classified as accidental. The report also listed the combined effects of multiple prescription medications as a significant contributor, though the specific drugs were not named.
The full autopsy report is expected to be released later.
Clarke, drafted in the first round of the 2019 NBA draft, had limited playing time in the 2025‑26 season due to injuries. He played a total of 309 NBA games, averaging 10.2 points per game.
Less than a month before his passing, Clarke was arrested in Arkansas on charges including speeding and possession of a controlled substance.
Clarke was born in Vancouver and held dual Canadian and American citizenship. He played college basketball at San Jose State and Gonzaga before being drafted by the Oklahoma City Thunder and traded to the Grizzlies.
In a tribute, the Grizzlies expressed that they were heartbroken and highlighted Clarke as an outstanding teammate and a person whose impact on both the organization and the Memphis community would not be forgotten.
