Brandon Clarke: Memphis Grizzlies forward death due to effects of drug use
Los Angeles medical examiners have ruled that the death of Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke was accidental, caused by the combined effects of heroin, cocaine, and prescription medications. Clarke, 29, was found unresponsive in May 2026.
Why it matters
The death of a professional athlete due to substance use highlights the ongoing challenges regarding player welfare and the prevalence of opioid-related issues.
Image source, Getty Images Image caption, Brandon Clarke was named in the NBA's All-Rookie First Team in 2020
Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke's death in May was caused by the "effects of heroin and cocaine", the Los Angeles authorities have revealed.
The County of Los Angeles Department of Medical Examiner ruled that the death was accidental. , external
The 29-year-old was found unresponsive in a bedroom at a house in San Fernando Valley on 11 May, 2026 and was pronounced dead by paramedics.
The medical examiner's office also listed the "combined effects of multiple prescription medications" as a "significant" contributor to his death but did not state what the medications were.
The medical examiner added that its full report would be available at a later date.
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