Former Memphis Grizzlies player Brandon Clarke has died at the age of 29, with authorities reportedly investigating the case as a possible overdose.
According to reports, the Los Angeles Fire Department responded to a medical emergency call at about 5pm on Monday. Paramedics reportedly declared Clarke dead at the scene after arriving at the home where he was staying.
Reports also claimed that drug paraphernalia was found inside the residence, while an autopsy is expected to determine the official cause and manner of death. Clarke’s death has sent shockwaves through the basketball world, with tributes pouring in from his agency, the Grizzlies and NBA commissioner Adam Silver.
“We are heartbroken by the tragic loss of Brandon Clarke,” the Grizzlies said in a statement. “Brandon was an outstanding teammate and an even better person whose impact on the organization and the greater Memphis community will not be forgotten.”
Clarke was arrested in Arkansas last month on allegations including speeding, fleeing and possession of a controlled substance.
The basketball star entered the NBA in 2019 after being selected as the 21st overall pick in the draft by the Oklahoma City Thunder before being traded to Memphis. Over seven NBA seasons, he averaged 10.2 points, 5.5 rebounds and 1.3 assists across 309 games.
