Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke died of an accidental overdose involving heroin and cocaine, authorities announced Friday. The Los Angeles County Department of Medical Examiner cited the combined effects of the drugs as the cause of death.
Clarke, 29, was discovered deceased in his Los Angeles residence on May 11. Law enforcement officials found drug paraphernalia at the scene.
He was selected by the Oklahoma City Thunder in the first round of the 2019 NBA Draft, with his rights subsequently traded to the Grizzlies. Clarke earned MVP honors at the 2019 NBA Summer League, becoming the second non-American player to achieve this recognition.
During his seven seasons with the Grizzlies, Clarke primarily served in a reserve role. This past NBA season was significantly impacted by injuries, with Clarke playing in only two games. He initially underwent surgery for a knee injury and later suffered a calf strain that sidelined him for most of the season. In March, the team stated he was still rehabilitating, with expectations for his return the following season.
In April, Clarke was arrested in Arkansas on charges including improper passing, possession of a controlled substance, fleeing, exceeding the speed limit, and trafficking a controlled substance. He was scheduled to appear in court on May 15.
Prior to his NBA career, Clarke played college basketball at Gonzaga, where he earned a spot on the 2019-20 All-Rookie team. Over his professional career, he averaged 10.2 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 1.3 assists per game in 309 appearances, averaging 20.8 minutes on the court.