Brandon Clarke's death ruled accidental due to drug effects

Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke died on May 11, 2026, from the effects of heroin and cocaine, as confirmed by the Los Angeles County Department of Medical Examiner. The examination indicated that the combined effects of multiple prescription medications also significantly contributed to his death. Clarke, 29, was found unresponsive in a San Fernando Valley home, with paramedics pronouncing him dead shortly after their arrival. He had played only two games in the 2025-26 NBA season due to injury. The medical examiner's full report is forthcoming, as the Grizzlies expressed their grief over losing a valued teammate and community member.

• 12:08 AMYahoo Sports — Brandon Clarke’s Death Ruled Accidental After Medical Examiner Identifies Heroin and Cocaine Effects
• 2:37 PMYahoo Sports — Autopsy finds Grizzlies' Brandon Clarke died from mixture of drugs
• 12:05 PMYahoo Sports — NBA forward Clarke's death due to effects of drugs
• 12:05 PMBBC News — NBA forward Clarke's death due to effects of drugs - BBC
• 12:05 PMBBC Sport — NBA forward Clarke's death due to effects of drugs
• 4:05 AMKABC-TV — Brandon Clarke, NBA player for Memphis Grizzlies, died from effects of heroin and cocaine, authorities say - ABC7 Los Angeles
• 12:24 AMhoopsrumors.com — Coroner: Brandon Clarke Died Of Accidental Overdose - Hoops Rumors
• 9:24 PMAssociated Press — Memphis forward Brandon Clarke died from effects of heroin and cocaine, authorities say - AP News