Clip of Brandon Clarke's community work resurfaces after his death

Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke has died at age 29. Troy Wayrynen-Imagn Images

Clip of Brandon Clarke's community work resurfaces after death of Grizzlies forward

By Clark Dalton | Last updated May 12, 2026 5:59 PM ET

The Memphis Grizzlies confirmed Tuesday that forward Brandon Clarke has died. He was 29.

Clarke was found dead at a home in the San Fernando Valley from a possible drug overdose, the Los Angeles Police Department told ABC News. Narcotics were found at the scene, but there was no evidence of foul play.

"We are heartbroken by the tragic loss of Brandon Clarke," the team said in a statement. "Brandon was an outstanding teammate and an even better person whose impact on the organization and the greater Memphis community will not be forgotten. We express our deepest condolences to his family and loved ones during this difficult time."

Clarke's work in the Memphis community made him one of the team's more beloved members. Some of it resurfaced on social media after his death.

pic.twitter.com/RvDXJCxlWQ
— Memphis Grizzlies (@memgrizz) May 12, 2026

Brandon Clarke's community work resurfaces after death

Damichael Cole of The Commercial Appeal noted Clarke had started his own foundation before his death and was "committed to pouring into the Memphis community." The foundation prioritized supporting local families and improving childhood literacy.

Matt Infield of WMC-TV in Memphis shared a clip of Clarke giving a $1,500 check at one of these events on Sept. 18, 2025, one day before his 29th birthday.

"Believe this is one of the last times we spoke with Brandon Clarke," wrote Infield. "He presented a $1,500 check to KIPP Collegiate School last September through his foundation as part of the 'ARISE2Read' campaign. A good dude through and through."

Believe this is one of the last times we spoke with Brandon Clarke.

He presented a $1,500 check to KIPP Collegiate School last September through his foundation as part of the "ARISE2Read" campaign.

A good dude through and through. pic.twitter.com/xC3BsiBuTh
— Matt Infield (@Matt_Infield) May 12, 2026

Clarke also donated books and other resources to KIPP Memphis Collegiate School Elementary. He wanted to teach the children the value of education.

"Every time I talk to kids, I try to get that in their minds that school is important, teachers are important and grades matter," he said, per Cole. "I couldn't have made it here without locking in on reading, writing and all of that stuff."

Clarke spent his entire seven-year career with the Grizzlies, averaging 10.2 points per game. His solid play and dedication to helping others will continue to make him cherished in the Memphis community well after his death.

Clark Dalton

Clark Dalton is a 2022 journalism graduate of the University of Texas at Austin. He gained experience in sports media over the past seven years — from live broadcasting and creating short films to podcasting and producing. In college, he wrote for The Daily Texan. He loves sports and enjoys hiking, kayaking and camping.

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