Brandon Clarke, Grizzlies forward and former Gonzaga star, dead at 29

May 12, 2026 - 19:21

The Memphis Grizzlies and the basketball world are mourning the sudden loss of forward Brandon Clarke, who has died at the age of 29. Clarke, a former standout at Gonzaga University, had been sidelined for most of the current NBA season, appearing in only two games for the Grizzlies. The team confirmed the news on Tuesday, though no official cause of death has been released.

Drafted by the Oklahoma City Thunder in 2019 and immediately traded to Memphis, Clarke quickly became a fan favorite for his high-energy play and relentless work on the boards. Over his career, he averaged 9.6 points and 5.0 rebounds per game, carving out a reputation as a reliable two-way forward. His best season came in 2022-23, when he shot nearly 65 percent from the field and helped the Grizzlies secure a top seed in the Western Conference.

Clarke's impact extended beyond the stat sheet. Known for his quiet leadership and team-first attitude, he was a steadying presence in the locker room. This season, he had been rehabbing from a series of injuries, including a torn Achilles that kept him out for the entire 2023-24 campaign. He returned to the court briefly this fall but was again sidelined.

Tributes have poured in from former teammates, coaches, and Gonzaga alumni. Mark Few, his college coach, called Clarke "one of the most humble and hardworking players I have ever coached." The Grizzlies organization released a statement expressing deep sorrow, asking for privacy for Clarke's family during this difficult time.