Image Credit: Getty Images Brandon Clarke, a veteran basketball forward for the Memphis Grizzlies, died on May 11, 2026, his agency and NBA team confirmed. Since the late athlete was just 29, sports fans are reeling from the news and wondering what the cause of death is. Moreover, Clarke's death came weeks after he was arrested in Arkansas due to allegations of speeding, reckless driving and possessing a controlled substance. According to police, Clarke had more than 200 grams of kratom in his car. Here is what we know so far about Clarke's death and his final weeks.