Autopsy Finds Heroin, Cocaine Caused Death of Former Memphis Grizzlies Star Brandon Clarke

Los Angeles County coroner’s officials determined Friday that the death of Brandon Clarke — former Memphis Grizzlies forward and 2019 NBA draft pick — was accidental, resulting from the combined toxic effects of heroin and cocaine.

Timeline of discovery and official ruling

Clarke, a dual U.S.-Canadian national born in Vancouver, was found unconscious in his room on May 11 and pronounced dead at the scene by emergency responders. A deputy medical examiner conducted an autopsy the following day. The official cause and manner of death were formally certified on Friday.

Background and NBA career

Clarke was selected by the Oklahoma City Thunder with the 21st overall pick in the 2019 NBA Draft before being immediately traded to the Memphis Grizzlies. He spent seven seasons with the franchise. His biological mother is Canadian; his father is Jamaican.

Injury challenges and statistical peak

Injuries significantly impacted Clarke’s playing time: he appeared in only two games during the 2025–2026 season. His strongest statistical season came in 2019–2020, his rookie year, when he averaged 12.1 points and 5.9 rebounds per game.