NBA forward Brandon Clarke's death attributed to effects of heroin and cocaine

Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke, 29, died on May 11, 2026, with authorities officially attributing his death to the effects of heroin and cocaine. The Los Angeles County Department of Medical Examiner ruled the death an accidental overdose. The report also noted that the combined effects of multiple prescription medications were a significant contributing factor.

Clarke was discovered unresponsive in a residence in California's San Fernando Valley and was pronounced dead at the scene. Drug paraphernalia was found at the home, prompting an investigation into a possible drug overdose.

The Canadian-American basketball player had spent his entire seven-year NBA career with the Memphis Grizzlies after being drafted in 2019. He had been sidelined by injuries in his final seasons, including an Achilles tear and knee and calf issues, and was arrested in April 2026 on charges including possession of a controlled substance.