The basketball world is mourning the loss of NBA player Brandon Clarke. The 29-year-old American passed away, as announced by his former team, the Memphis Grizzlies, and his agency, Priority Sports.
The cause of death has not been officially disclosed. However, the Los Angeles Police Department confirmed to ABC News that there are indications of a possible drug overdose. Narcotics were reportedly found near the body, and there is no evidence of foul play.
“We are deeply shaken by the tragic loss of Brandon Clarke. Brandon was an outstanding teammate and an even better person, whose impact on the club and the entire Memphis community will never be forgotten,” the Grizzlies wrote on X. “He was so deeply loved by all of us here and by everyone whose life he touched,” Clarke’s agency added.
The NBA also expressed its grief. Commissioner Adam Silver said: “We are profoundly saddened by the death of Brandon Clarke. As one of the longest-tenured members of the Grizzlies, Brandon was a beloved teammate and leader who played with tremendous passion and determination.”
Clarke entered the NBA in 2019 and spent his entire career with the Memphis Grizzlies. He was named to the All-Rookie First Team in his debut season. Due to injuries, he appeared in only two games during the current season.