Ja Morant Reacts to Death of Grizzlies Teammate Brandon Clarke

Tragic news struck the basketball world on Tuesday when it was announced by his agency that Brandon Clarke, forward for the Memphis Grizzlies, had died at the age of 29.

Clarke was selected 21st overall out of Gonzaga in the first round of the 2019 NBA Draft by the Oklahoma City Thunder before being traded to Memphis on draft night, where he spent the entirety of his NBA career.

"As one of the longest-tenured members of the Grizzlies, Brandon was a beloved teammate and leader who played the game with enormous passion and grit," NBA commissioner Adam Silver said in a statement. "Our thoughts and sympathies are with Brandon's family, friends and the Grizzlies organization."

More news: Luka Doncic Has One Major Condition for Lakers Trading for Giannis: Report

More news: JJ Redick Gets Honest About Lakers Roster Amid LeBron James Rumors

In that same 2019 draft, the Grizzlies selected Ja Morant with the No. 2 overall pick. Morant, who had become one of Clarke's closest teammates over the years, reacted to the tragic news hours after it was confirmed through an emotional post on his Instagram story.

"This hurt BC," Morant posted alongside a heartbreak emoji. "Love you broski. Gone way too soon… it's bigger than basketball."

Morant also shared several photos of the two together.

Clarke served as a valuable piece of the Memphis Grizzlies roster during several of the franchise's successful seasons and playoff appearances in recent years.

However, injuries played a significant role throughout the latter stages of his career, as Clarke appeared in just 72 total games over the last three seasons with Memphis. He also suffered a season-ending torn Achilles in March 2023 after playing in only six games that year.

More news: NBA World in Shock as Former First-Round Pick Brandon Clarke Passes Away at 29

2026 NEWSWEEK DIGITAL LLC.

This story was originally published May 12, 2026 at 7:09 PM.