Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke died due to the effects of heroin and cocaine, the Los Angeles County Department of Medical Examiner reported Friday. The medical examiner officially ruled Clarke's May 11 death an accident. The combined effects of multiple prescription medications were also identified as a significant contributing condition, although specific medications were not disclosed in the initial report.

Clarke, 29, was discovered unresponsive in a bedroom at a California residence and was pronounced dead at the scene. The medical examiner conducted an examination the following day before formally certifying the cause and manner of death. The full medical examiner’s report has not yet been released.

Clarke played seven seasons in the NBA, all with the Memphis Grizzlies. He averaged 10.2 points and 5.5 rebounds over 309 games, finishing fourth in Rookie of the Year voting in his 2019-20 debut season. His career was hampered by injuries in his final years, including missing over a year after tearing an Achilles tendon in 2023 and appearing in only two games during the 2025-26 season due to knee and calf ailments.

Approximately six weeks before his death, Clarke was arrested in Arkansas on charges including possession and trafficking of a controlled substance following a traffic stop. The details of that legal situation were not immediately available.

Following Clarke’s death, the Grizzlies organization remembered him as an "outstanding teammate and an even better person." The team noted that his positive influence extended beyond the organization and into the broader Memphis community.

Clarke concluded his college career at Gonzaga before being drafted by the Grizzlies. His professional career highlights include his impactful rookie season, where he showed significant promise as a versatile forward.

Injuries played a significant role in the latter part of Clarke's career, limiting his playing time and effectiveness. The Achilles tendon tear in 2023 was a particularly severe setback, requiring extensive rehabilitation.

Further details regarding the specific prescription medications involved and the full toxicology report are expected to be released in the complete medical examiner’s findings, which could provide more context to the circumstances surrounding his death.