The Los Angeles County Department of Medical Examiner has ruled that Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke died from an accidental overdose caused by the combined effects of heroin and cocaine. Clarke, 29, was found unresponsive in his bedroom at a home in Southern California on May 11 and was later pronounced dead.
Details of the Incident
Paramedics were called to a property in the San Fernando Valley at around 5pm. Anonymous sources later claimed drug paraphernalia was found near his body. The medical examiner also listed the “combined effects of multiple prescription medications” as a significant condition linked to his death, though the specific drugs were not named.
Official Statement
In a brief statement released on Friday (August 7), the office added: “The Medical Examiner report will be available at a future date.” The Los Angeles Times reported that the accidental overdose was confirmed to be caused by the combined effects of heroin and cocaine.
Injury History
Clarke's death came after a period blighted by serious injuries that disrupted his final years in the NBA. He missed more than a year after tearing his Achilles tendon in 2023. He then required two separate surgeries on his right knee in 2025, and managed just two appearances in the 2025–26 season after suffering a severe calf strain, Hoops Rumors reported.
Arrest Six Weeks Before Death
Six weeks before his death, Clarke was arrested in Arkansas following a high-speed police chase that allegedly topped 100mph. Police said they found a duffel bag containing 235 grams - around 1,200 pills - of kratom. Clarke reportedly told officers the pills were “just kratom”. Kratom is a plant-based extract sometimes used to self-treat chronic pain, depression or opioid withdrawal. While legal in Tennessee, where Clarke lived, it is classed as a felony controlled substance in Arkansas. The medical examiner did not say whether kratom was present in his system at the time of death.
Career Highlights
Clarke was drafted 21st overall in 2019 out of Gonzaga University and spent his entire seven-year career with the Grizzlies. He averaged 10.2 points and 5.5 rebounds a game, becoming a key high-energy bench player admired by teammates and coaches for his consistently positive attitude.
