The Los Angeles Police Department has provided more details about the death of Memphis Grizzlies player Brandon Clarke.
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According to ABC News, LAPD sources confirmed that the 29-year-old forward was found dead in a home in Los Angeles' San Fernando Valley due to a possible drug overdose. The sources said that narcotics were found at the scene but that authorities did not suspect foul play had a role in his death.
Clarke had previously been arrested in Arkansas for speeding and for possession of a controlled substance. According to ESPN, the reported substance was kratom, an herbal substance that is illegal in some states.
"This is an incredible loss for the brotherhood," said the National Basketball Players Association after hearing news of Clarke's death.
"We will remember Brandon not only for the immense joy he brought to so many throughout his career, but for the genuine friendships he built far beyond basketball."
A former player for Gonzaga, Clarke entered the NBA as the 21st pick in the 2019 Draft. The Oklahoma City Thunder selected him before trading his rights to the Memphis Grizzlies.
Clarke spent his entire seven-year career with the Grizzlies while becoming an important player off of the bench. He was part of the All-Rookie team in 2020 after averaging 12.1 points and 5.9 rebounds in 58 games. He ended the shortened season fourth in Rookie of the Year voting.
The former Gonzaga player averaged 10.2 points and 5.5 rebounds over his seven seasons with the Grizzlies, but he only appeared in only 72 of a possible 246 games over the past three seasons due to injuries.
"We are devastated to hear the news about Brandon," Gonzaga coach Mark Few said in a statement. "He had such a kind, gentle and warm soul, and I will always remember the great smile he had on his face whenever you were around him.
"BC was one of the most easygoing players we have ever had, and he was part of one of the greatest teams in our program's history. Brandon was a spectacular player and competitor, and a phenomenal teammate to all. He was a true legend who will never be forgotten here at Gonzaga."
