LOS ANGELES (AP) — Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke passed away in May due to heroin and cocaine effects, as confirmed by authorities on Friday.
The Los Angeles County Department of Medical Examiner determined that the 29-year-old athlete’s death was accidental.
Clarke was discovered deceased in a residence near Los Angeles on May 11. A source familiar with the investigation’s details informed The Associated Press, following the Grizzlies’ announcement of Clarke’s death, that drug paraphernalia was present at the location. This information was shared on condition of anonymity as it had not been officially released.
Clarke was contracted to remain with the Grizzlies until the 2026-27 season.
Approximately six weeks prior to his death, Clarke was arrested in Arkansas on charges of speeding, reckless driving, and possession of a controlled substance. He spent his entire seven-year professional career with Memphis after completing his college basketball career at Gonzaga.
