MEMPHIS, TENNESSEE — The Memphis Grizzlies and Priority Sports announced on Tuesday that forward Brandon Clarke died at age 29. No cause of death was immediately known.

Clarke spent all seven of his NBA seasons with the Grizzlies, compiling career averages of 10.2 points and 5.5 rebounds in 309 games. He was selected by the Oklahoma City Thunder with the No. 21 overall pick in the NBA draft and was traded to Memphis shortly afterward.

"We are devastated to learn of the passing of Brandon Clarke. 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. Our thoughts and sympathies are with Brandon's family, friends and the Grizzlies organization," NBA Commissioner Adam Silver said in a statement.

Priority Sports, which represented Clarke, addressed his death in a statement. "We are all beyond devastated by the passing of Brandon Clarke. He was so loved by all of us here, and everyone whose life he touched. He was the gentlest soul who was the first to be there for all of his friends and family," the agency said. "Everyone loved BC because he was always there as the most supportive friend you could ever imagine. He was so unique in the joy he brought to all of those in his life. It's just impossible to put into words how much he'll be missed."

Clarke's recent seasons were shortened by injuries. He played in six games during the 2023-24 season due to a torn Achilles. He was out at the start of this season due to a right knee injury, returned in mid-December and injured his right calf in his second game back. On March 24, the Grizzlies ruled him out for the rest of the season.

On April 1, Clarke was arrested on four charges, including possession of and trafficking a controlled substance. He was also charged with two driving offenses: improper passing and fleeing in a vehicle while speeding.

Born in Vancouver, Canada, Clarke played basketball at Desert Vista High School in Phoenix, Arizona. He spent two years at San Jose State University before playing one year at Gonzaga University.