NBA star Brandon Clarke died from heroin, cocaine effects, examiner rules | Basketball News
Los Angeles County Medical Examiner Rules Brandon Clarke’s Death Accidental
August 8, 2026
The Los Angeles County Department of Medical Examiner has ruled the death of Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke, who died on May 11, as accidental. According to the report released Friday, the causes of death were the effects of heroin and cocaine.
Additionally, the medical examiner noted that the combined effects of multiple prescription medications contributed significantly to Clarke’s condition, although the specifics of those medications remain undisclosed. The comprehensive medical report is still pending.
Clarke, 29, was found unresponsive in a bedroom at a residence in California’s San Fernando Valley and was pronounced dead at the scene by paramedics. An examination was conducted the following day, which led to the formal certification of his cause and manner of death.
During his seven-season career in the NBA, Clarke spent his entire tenure with the Memphis Grizzlies after completing his collegiate career at Gonzaga University. He averaged 10.2 points and 5.5 rebounds over 309 games, including 50 starts, and was recognized in 2020 when he finished fourth in the Rookie of the Year voting.
Injuries hampered Clarke’s performance in his final seasons, most notably a torn Achilles tendon in 2023 that sidelined him for over a year. He was able to participate in only two games during the 2025-26 season due to recurring knee and calf injuries.
Approximately six weeks prior to his death, Clarke was arrested in Arkansas on multiple charges, including possession and trafficking of a controlled substance following a traffic stop.
In the wake of his passing, the Grizzlies expressed their condolences, remembering Clarke as “an outstanding teammate and an even better person” whose impact was felt both within the organization and throughout the Memphis community.
