Memphis Grizzlies Player Brandon Clarke Dead at 29

Memphis Grizzlies player Brandon Clarke has died at just 29 years old.

TMZ was the first to report the news on Tuesday, May 12, but there are few details surrounding the NBA player‘s death. Clarke’s agency also confirmed the news and shared a statement on social media.

“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 statement shared via X by Priority Sports on Tuesday read.

“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,” the message continued.

The Grizzlies posted a statement of their own, as well.

“We are heartbroken by the tragic loss of Brandon Clarke,” the Memphis team’s official X account wrote. “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.”

TMZ reported that in April, Clarke was arrested after he led Arkansas police on a high-speed chase.

He was later charged with possession and trafficking of a controlled substance called kratom, a supplement sold as an energy booster, in addition to fleeing.

The case had not been resolved at the time of his death.