Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke dies at age 29
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- Brandon Clarke died at age 29, announced by the Memphis Grizzlies and his agency Priority Sports on May 12, 2026, with no cause disclosed.
- Memphis Grizzlies expressed heartbreak, calling him an outstanding teammate and person whose impact on the organization and Memphis community will not be forgotten.
- Priority Sports said it is "just impossible to put into words how much he'll be missed."
- NBA described Clarke as one of the longest‑tenured Grizzlies members, a beloved teammate and leader, and extended sympathies to his family and friends.
- Brandon Clarke was a 2019 first‑round pick by the Oklahoma City Thunder, traded to Memphis two weeks later, made the All‑Rookie Team with 12.1 points and 5.9 rebounds, signed a four‑year, $52 million extension in 2022, but injuries—including a torn Achilles in 2023 and calf/knee issues—limited his play to two games this season.
Why it matters: The Grizzlies lose a $52 million veteran and community figure, impacting team chemistry and Memphis fan engagement while forcing roster and salary‑cap adjustments and a void in local outreach.
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