Gonzaga coach Mark Few paid tribute to former player Brandon Clarke after his unexpected death at age 29.
A star in the NBA and a key figure from Gonzaga’s recent past is gone, with the basketball world stunned after the unexpected death of Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke.
Clarke, who was 29, played part of his college career at Gonzaga under head coach Mark Few.. In a statement shared publicly. Few expressed his shock and deep sadness. describing Clarke as someone with a kind. gentle. and warm presence. and highlighting the “great smile” he carried with him.. Few also emphasized Clarke’s impact as a competitor and teammate, calling him a spectacular player and a phenomenal teammate.
Memphis also released a tribute, saying the organization is heartbroken by Clarke’s passing.. The Grizzlies highlighted what they called his personal character and the role he played with the team. describing him as an outstanding teammate and an even better person.. They added that his influence on the organization and the broader Memphis community will not be forgotten. while extending condolences to his family and loved ones.
Clarke entered the NBA after a standout college run, being selected in the first round of the 2019 NBA Draft.. He joined the Grizzlies for the 2019-2020 season and remained with the team.. In 2025-26. the report noted that he averaged four points per game. though he appeared in only two games after dealing with injuries.
Before his time with Gonzaga, Clarke began his college basketball career at San Jose State before transferring to Gonzaga in 2018.. His path through college and into the NBA shaped the way many fans remember him. as a player who built his reputation step by step and then carried that competitiveness to the professional level.
The news also drew reactions from former NBA players. Kendrick Perkins was among those who posted their grief on X, sending a message that captured how much the loss hurt and offering a resting-in-peace tribute to Clarke.
Meanwhile, Clarke’s death is being investigated as potentially drug-related, according to a Tuesday report. The circumstances have prompted renewed attention and concern across the sports world, as unexpected losses like this leave teams, teammates, and fans searching for clarity while grieving.
For Gonzaga. Clarke’s story is also part of a broader narrative about the program’s ability to develop players beyond the college stage.. Few’s remarks underline how Gonzaga’s connection to Clarke went past the stat line. reflecting the personal regard that often forms when players and coaches share years of training. games. and day-to-day preparation.
For Memphis, the timing and the details surrounding Clarke’s last season-related availability add another layer to the tragedy.. The report indicated that injuries limited his appearances. and now his sudden absence has become a difficult reality for the team to process. both emotionally and in terms of what it means for the roster and the people who worked closely with him.
Brandon Clarke death Mark Few statement Gonzaga basketball Memphis Grizzlies NBA Draft 2019 Kendrick Perkins reaction