“We are devastated to learn of the passing of Brandon Clarke,” NBA commissioner Adam Silver said in a statement.
“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 organisation.”
Clarke was the 21st overall selection in the 2019 NBA draft and earned all-rookie honours in his opening season.
He inked a four-year, US$50 million ($84m) contract extension with the Grizzlies in 2022.
But he’d battled injuries in recent seasons. He played just six games in the 2023-24 season and after playing 64 games in 2024-25 Clarke played just two games this season because of calf and knee trouble.
His death comes six weeks after he was arrested in Arkansas on charges that included possession of a controlled substance and fleeing in a vehicle while speeding.
Teammate Ja Morant posted on Instagram an image saying: “Love you broski. Gone way too soon. It’s bigger than basketball.”
in 2019 we headed to Summer League, and the kid out of Gonzaga they drafted 21st overall won the MVP. He became beloved from literally the first time he wore the uniform. Look up and 7 years later he is gone. Still can’t believe it. So intensely sad.
RIP BC 😢 pic.twitter.com/9uFeZlMvjC— Chris Vernon (@ChrisVernonShow) May 12, 2026
