NBA player Brandon Clarke passes away at 29

Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke died at the age of 29. Los Angeles fire services responded to a medical emergency call at his home at 5 p.m. on Tuesday, May 12, where he was found deceased. While the official cause of death remains pending an autopsy, media outlets including TMZ reported that authorities found drug-related paraphernalia at the scene, prompting an investigation into a possible overdose. Clarke was the 21st pick in the 2019 NBA draft and played his entire seven-year career with the Memphis Grizzlies, appearing in over 300 games. In 2022, he signed a four-year, $50 million contract extension with the team. Professionally, he averaged 10.2 points and 5.5 rebounds per game throughout his career. Outside of basketball, public reports indicate that he was arrested in Arkansas this past April on charges related to reckless driving, speeding, and drug possession. The Grizzlies organization released a statement expressing deep condolences for the loss of their teammate.