The Memphis Grizzlies say forward Brandon Clarke died Monday near Los Angeles. Investigators found drug paraphernalia at the home, but the Medical Examiner’s Office says the official cause of death is likely to take weeks, pending toxicology and other tests.
Brandon Clarke’s death has left the NBA world waiting on answers—answers that may not come quickly. The Memphis Grizzlies forward was found dead inside a home near Los Angeles on Monday, and by Tuesday there were still more questions than certainty around what happened.
A person familiar with the investigation told The Associated Press that drug paraphernalia was found at the residence. Clarke, 29, was pronounced dead at the scene by first responders, and an autopsy was performed.
Even with that work completed, officials said the cause of death could take weeks to determine. The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner’s Office said the case remains open and the cause of death is listed as “deferred,” with toxicology and any other tests ordered still pending.
Back in Memphis, the shock has not faded. The Grizzlies posted a tribute video on Friday, saying Clarke’s “legacy will carry on in the hearts of Grizz Nation, always and forever.”
The team has not said whether it will hold a public memorial or when one might happen. It is also unclear when Clarke’s family will hold funeral services.
Los Angeles officials also pointed to other unresolved parts of the investigation, including who made the 911 call and what other factors could have played a role. At some point, the Medical Examiner’s Office will update Clarke’s cause of death, but the timeline depends on the return of tests.
The timeline of Clarke’s legal and health history has also added to the uncertainty. The forward was under contract with the Grizzlies through the 2026-27 season.
Clarke was arrested April 1 in Arkansas for speeding and possession of a controlled substance reportedly identified as kratom. an herbal supplement promoted by some as an alternative pain remedy.. The arrest followed a change in Tennessee law: kratom becomes illegal in the state as of July 1.. Clarke was released on bond the following day.
Whether kratom was in Clarke’s system at the time of his death is not known yet and likely hinges on toxicology results.. Health officials have warned about risks tied to an opioid-related chemical known as 7-hydroxymitragynine and a component of kratom.. The plant, native to Southeast Asia, has grown in popularity in the U.S.. as an unapproved treatment for pain, anxiety, and drug dependence.
A federal report from 2019 found overdose deaths involving kratom were more common than previously reported. The report said most who died had also taken heroin, fentanyl, or other substances, though officials counted some cases where kratom was the only substance listed.
Clarke’s recent season was also disrupted by injuries.. The 6-foot-8. 215-pound forward missed all but two games this season while dealing with two injuries—first a right knee issue that required surgery. then a right calf strain.. That marked the second time in the past three seasons that he was sidelined for essentially an entire year due to injuries.
Around the Grizzlies’ arena, fans have been showing their grief in person.. Flowers and other mementos have been left outside the team’s facilities in Memphis. and banners featuring players were attached to poles in the plaza outside FedEx Forum.. Fans have visited independently as well, adding their own tributes as the waiting continues.
What happens next depends on the Medical Examiner’s Office—on the toxicology results, on any additional testing that was ordered, and on the investigation’s further findings, including details surrounding the 911 call and any other factors officials believe may matter.
Brandon Clarke Memphis Grizzlies NBA death investigation Los Angeles County Medical Examiner toxicology drug paraphernalia kratom 7-hydroxymitragynine Arkansas arrest