Memphis Grizzlies Player Brandon Clarke Dies From Accidental Heroin and Cocaine Overdose

The Los Angeles County Department of Medical Examiner confirmed Friday that Memphis Grizzlies player Brandon Clarke died from an accidental overdose involving heroin and cocaine. The 29-year-old athlete was discovered deceased in his Los Angeles residence on May 11, with drug paraphernalia found at the scene during the investigation.

Clarke was selected in the first round of the 2019 NBA Draft by the Oklahoma City Thunder before his rights were acquired by Memphis in a trade that included the rights to Darius Bazley and a future second-round pick. The Vancouver native quickly established himself with the Grizzlies, capturing MVP honors at the 2019 NBA Summer League and becoming the second non-American to achieve that distinction.

Over seven seasons with Memphis, Clarke primarily contributed from the bench, averaging 20.8 minutes across 309 career games while posting 10.2 points, 5.5 rebounds and 1.3 assists per contest. His rookie 2019-20 season proved particularly productive, as he earned All-Rookie team selection after averaging 12.1 points, 5.9 rebounds and 1.4 assists nightly.

The current season proved challenging for Clarke, who appeared in only two games due to right knee surgery followed by a right calf strain. Memphis indicated in March that he required additional recovery time and was expected to return the following season.

Clarke faced legal difficulties in April when he was arrested in Arkansas on charges including improper passing, controlled substance possession, fleeing police, speeding and drug trafficking. A court appearance had been scheduled for May 15.