By Mallory Mattingly
Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke tragically died on Tuesday from an apparent drug overdose.
“We are heartbroken by the tragic loss of Brandon Clarke,” the team said in a post on social media. “Brandon was an outstanding teammate and an even better person whose impact on the organization and the great Memphis community will not be forgotten.”
According to ABC News, Clarke, 29, was found dead in the San Fernando Valley, Los Angeles area. There were also narcotics found at the scene with no signs of violent interactions.
Clarke was one of the longest-standing team members in the Grizzlies organization.
“We are devastated to learn of the passing of Brandon Clarke,” NBA Commissioner Adam Silver said of Clarke. “As one of the longest-tenured members of the Grizzlies, Brandon was a beloved teammate and leader who played the game with enormous passion and grit. Our thoughts and sympathies are with Brandon’s family, friends and the Grizzlies organization.”
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Clarke’s agency, Priority Sports, is “beyond devastated” to learn about the passing of their player.
“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,” the agency shared. “He was the gentlest soul who was the first to be there for all of his friends and family. 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.”
“Everyone loved BC because he was always there as the most supportive friend you could ever imagine. He was so unique in the joy he brought to all of those in his life. It’s just impossible to put into words how much he’ll be missed,” the agency added.
Clarke’s teammates also took to social media to express their condolences over the loss of their teammate.
“This hurt BC. Love you, broski. Gone way too soon. It’s bigger than basketball,” Ja Morant wrote on his Instagram story.
That story included a photo of Clarke hugging Morant from behind after an on-court play.
Center Zach Edey posted on his story, “Thank you for always being there with a smile and good intentions. Whenever I needed you as a vet, you always had time to talk. Enjoy a better place and thank you for everything, brother.”
“Speechless. 3 years of brotherhood that’ll never leave me. From the countless late-night talks to making music, you’ve always been a motivator, an example of how to be professional and how to navigate hardships on and off the court. You will be missed, brother,” forward GG Jackson wrote on his story.
Pray for Clarke’s family, friends, teammates and coaches as they all navigate his death.
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