Getty

PHOENIX, ARIZONA - FEBRUARY 11: Brandon Clarke #15 of the Memphis Grizzlies during the second half of the NBA game at Footprint Center on February 11, 2025 in Phoenix, Arizona. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images)

In shocking news, Memphis Grizzlies big man Brandon Clarke has died unexpectedly at age 29, according to a May 12 tweet from ESPN’s Shams Charania.

Clarke played his entire seven-year NBA career with the Grizzlies, proving to be a reliable rotation player when healthy.

As of midday on May 12, details about his untimely death were scarce. Charania provided very few details around what happened, although they are sure to come out. Memphis will now mourn the tragic death of this young man.

Memphis Grizzlies Big Man Brandon Clarke Dies at 29

This past season, Clarke ended up playing just two games. He suffered a knee injury during preseason, which didn’t allow him to play until the middle of December. Clarke only played two games before he injured his calf, which kept him out for the remainder of the season.

Clarke had struggled with injuries over the last few seasons. He tore his Achilles tendon towards the end of the 2022-2023 season. Since that injury, he had struggled to stay on the court. Yet, he was an integral part of their rotation when he was healthy.

More than that, Clarke was a beloved teammate. He was someone in the locker room that was always able to bring out positivity in situations, despite the own pain he was going through with his injuries. Now, the Grizzlies not only lose a good basketball player, but a good human being.

The Grizzlies released an official statement on social media shortly after the news broke.

Memphis declined to give any additional details as to what happened regarding his passing. Right now, they are worried about giving support to the teammates, friends, and family who are deeply affected by his passing.

Memphis Experiences a Wide Range of Emotions

Two days ago, the Grizzlies moved up to third in the NBA Draft Lottery. They now get an opportunity to draft a player who can help them move past the Ja Morant era and help them rebuild. The euphoria felt by everyone in the city was palpable.

Now, those emotions have turned 180 degrees. Those within the organization have turned from feeling jubilation to utter sadness. It is a sad state of affairs for an organization of a small-market team that loves players who love the city. Clarke certainly loved the city.

From a basketball standpoint, Memphis will now need to sign someone to replace him. He was expected to be a valuable bench member next season, just as he had been when he was healthy. However, that is something that can wait form a front office perspective.

Right now, everyone in the organization is thinking of Clarke’s family as they go through an incredibly difficult time.