Grizzlies Honor Late Brandon Clarke as Emotional Night Unfolds in Memphis Ahead of Season Opener

It's still NBA Opening Night for some teams as the Memphis Grizzlies took on the Utah Jazz in their season opener on Wednesday. The Grizzlies are looking very different this season, especially with former core members Ja Morant and Jaren Jackson Jr. no longer with the team.

Another notable player no longer with the Grizzlies is the late Brandon Clarke. Earlier in May, the seven-year Grizzlies veteran passed away. Clarke was set to enter his last season in his four-year contract with Memphis in the 2026-27 season. Despite the manner of his passing, the Grizzlies organization still honored him with a tribute video shown at FedExForum.

For those unaware, Clarke passed away on May 11. On August 7, 2026, the Los Angeles County Department of Medical Examiner determined that Clarke died from the effects of heroin and cocaine and ruled his death accidental. The autopsy also identified the combined effects of multiple prescription medications as a significant contributing condition.

His roommate found Clarke unresponsive at around 5 p.m. in the San Fernando Valley, Los Angeles. Paramedics pronounced him dead at 5:15 p.m.

Clarke had dealt with injuries in recent seasons, limiting his availability. However, there is no established evidence that his injuries caused substance abuse. In April 2026, a month before his passing, Clarke was arrested in Arkansas for possession of drugs. Reports said he faced charges including possession and trafficking of a controlled substance, as well as driving-related offenses. The charges should not be treated as proof of guilt.

The Grizzlies also announced an Opening Night tribute, a moment of silence, and a “BC” jersey patch for the 2026–27 season. Before his passing, Brandon's notable achievements included finishing fourth in the Rookie of the Year race in 2020. He then finished 11th in Sixth Man of the Year voting in the 2021–22 season.

Brandon Clarke's Former Teammates Break Silence on His Tragic Passing

One of Brandon Clarke's longtime teammates, Jaren Jackson Jr., who now plays for the Utah Jazz, reflected on his late friend before the game ahead of Memphis' tribute.

Clarke and Jackson played together for seven seasons in Memphis, helping Ja Morant and the Grizzlies compete in the Western Conference. Given their long history with one another, Jaren spoke about his friendship with Clarke.

"I mean, you know, that's my brother," Jackson Jr. told Weekend Sports Anchor Matt Infield. "It was everything."

Of course, Clarke also played with some of the other current Grizzlies players. For instance, Cam Spencer, who Clarke played with for two seasons, also had some things to say about his late teammate's tribute.

"It will be emotional for sure," Spencer told Matt Infield. "I don't know if it's a sign, but having Jaren come back- he was obviously very close with Brandon- so I think that will be a cool thing for him. Obviously, it will be an emotional start to the game... We're going to play our hearts out for Brandon."

Clarke was one of the Grizzlies' hustle players. He often fought for the ball, made defensive plays, and contributed on offense. Over 309 NBA appearances, he averaged 10.2 points and 5.5 rebounds per game.

Rest in peace, Brandon Clarke.