The Los Angeles County Department of Medical Examiner has determined that Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke died from the combined effects of heroin and cocaine. The 29-year-old player’s May 11 death has been ruled accidental. Authorities also noted that multiple prescription medications contributed significantly to his passing, though the specific drugs were not identified in the initial report.
Clarke was found unresponsive in a bedroom at a San Fernando Valley residence and was declared dead at the scene by emergency responders. Medical examiners conducted their evaluation the following day before officially confirming the cause and manner of death on Friday. The complete medical examiner’s report has not yet been released to the public.
The seven-year NBA veteran spent his entire professional career with Memphis after completing his college years at Gonzaga. He recorded 10.2 points and 5.5 rebounds per game across 309 appearances and finished fourth in Rookie of the Year balloting during the 2019-20 season. Recent years had been marked by significant injuries, including an Achilles tendon tear in 2023 that sidelined him for over a year. This past season, he played in only two games due to knee and calf problems.
The Grizzlies organization issued a statement describing Clarke as an outstanding teammate and respected community figure whose impact extended well beyond professional basketball.
Originally reported by Aljazeera →
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