Brandon Clarke death ruled accidental overdose by medical examiner

The Los Angeles County Department of Medical Examiner has officially ruled the death of Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke an accident. Clarke, 29, was found unresponsive in a San Fernando Valley residence on May 11, 2026.

The medical examiner determined the cause of death was the "effects of heroin and cocaine." The report also noted that the combined effects of multiple prescription medications were a significant contributing factor, though the specific medications have not been disclosed.

Clarke, a Canadian-American athlete who played seven seasons in the NBA entirely with the Memphis Grizzlies, was a former first-round draft pick. He averaged 10.2 points and 5.5 rebounds per game during his career. His final seasons were heavily impacted by injuries, including a torn Achilles tendon in 2023.

Prior to his death, Clarke had been arrested in Arkansas in April on charges involving the possession and trafficking of a controlled substance following a traffic stop. The Grizzlies organization and NBA Commissioner Adam Silver have both issued tributes, remembering him as an outstanding teammate and a beloved leader.