The Los Angeles County Department of Medical Examiner has ruled that Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke died from the effects of heroin and cocaine, and that his death was accidental.

The determination, announced in a press release on August 7, 2026, closes a case that had been listed as "deferred" since Clarke was found unresponsive in a San Fernando Valley home on May 11, 2026. Paramedics pronounced him dead at the scene at approximately 5:00 p.m. (Los Angeles County Medical Examiner). Officers who responded found drug paraphernalia in the home, according to the Associated Press. The medical examiner said its full report would be available at a later date. (BBC Sport)

Clarke was 29. Born in Vancouver and a dual citizen of Canada and the United States, he played his college basketball at San Jose State before transferring to Gonzaga, where his shot-blocking and efficient scoring made him one of the most talked-about frontcourt prospects in the country. The Oklahoma City Thunder selected him in the first round of the 2019 NBA Draft and immediately traded him to Memphis, where he spent his entire professional career.

Over six seasons, Clarke appeared in 309 NBA games, starting 50, and averaged 10.2 points per game. He was the kind of role player every contender needs — a bouncy, 6-foot-8 forward who could guard multiple positions, finish lobs at the rim, and rebound outside his frame. He was at his best during the Grizzlies' 2021-22 run, when Memphis won 56 games and pushed deep into the playoffs behind a young core led by Ja Morant.

Injuries defined the back half of his career. Clarke tore his Achilles in March 2023 and spent much of the next two years rehabilitating. He managed only two appearances in the 2025-26 season. (BBC Sport)

A month before his death, Clarke was arrested in Arkansas on charges that included speeding and possession of a controlled substance. (BBC Sport)

The initial investigation left the cause of death open. After Clarke was found on May 11, the coroner's office listed the cause as "deferred," indicating that further testing was needed before a determination could be made. The autopsy has now provided the answers. (AP News)

For the Grizzlies and their fans, the ruling brings a grim finality to a loss that the basketball world has been processing since spring. Clarke was a trusted, well-liked presence in the Memphis locker room — a player whose teammates nicknamed him "Outback" for his relentless energy on the glass. He was 29 years old.