Story perspectives

Ex-Grizzlies Guard Brandon Clarke Dies in Overdose.

5/13/2026

Summary

Brandon Clarke Overdose

Brandon Clarke, 29, was found dead in a San Fernando Valley home on May 11.
Los Angeles officials found drug paraphernalia and are investigating the death as an overdose, prompting NBA Commissioner Adam Silver and the Grizzlies to offer condolences.
Clarke, the No. 21 pick in the 2019 NBA Draft, had averaged 10.2 points over seven seasons and was arrested in Arkansas on April 1, 2026 for speeding and controlled-substance charges.

Summary

Brandon Clarke Helps

Brandon Clarke launched the Brandon Clarke Foundation in 2025 to aid families in tragedy and promote youth literacy.
The foundation donated $1,500 and materials to an elementary school and organized a celebration at Buckman Boys & Girls Club in Memphis that provided meals, gifts and games to families.
Partnering with nonprofit ARise2Read, the foundation aimed to improve reading skills beyond the classroom, prompting media to note a lasting imprint on Memphis.

History

Historical Context

After David Stern retired, Adam Silver took over as commissioner in 2014, guiding the NBA’s 30-team league. When Memphis guard Brandon Clarke died of an overdose in May 2026, the Grizzlies and his foundation teamed with ARise2Read to provide $1,500 in school supplies, reflecting the league’s ongoing broader community focus.

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Brandon Clarke Overdose

Brandon Clarke, 29, was found dead in a San Fernando Valley home on May 11.
Los Angeles officials found drug paraphernalia and are investigating the death as an overdose, prompting NBA Commissioner Adam Silver and the Grizzlies to offer condolences.
Clarke, the No. 21 pick in the 2019 NBA Draft, had averaged 10.2 points over seven seasons and was arrested in Arkansas on April 1, 2026 for speeding and controlled-substance charges.

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