NBA star, 29, dies as tributes pour in for ‘excellent teammate’
Tributes have poured in online after an NBA star has tragically died at just 29
Brandon Clarke has died at 29(Image: Getty Images)
Brandon Clarke has died at the age of just 29, as tributes pour in online for the NBA sensation.
Details surrounding the Memphis Grizzlies power forward are not yet clear.
Clarke was the 21st overall pick in the 2019 NBA Draft – picked up by Oklahoma City Thunder and immediately traded to the Grizzlies.
Born in Vancouver, Clarke played college basketball with San Jose prior to his transfer to Gonzaga in 2017.
As a decorated first-year pro, he found himself named in the NBA’s All-Rookie team.
However, he was limited to just two games this season as a result of a significant calf strain sustained in March.
A number of tributes have flooded social media in the aftermath of Clarke’s death, including one from the Grizzlies.
It read: “We are heartbroken by the tragic loss of Brandon Clarke. Brandon was an outstanding teammate and an even better person whose impact on the organization and the greater Memphis community will not be forgotten.
“We express our deepest condolences to his family and loved ones during this difficult time.”
Priority Sports, meanwhile, who represented Clarke throughout his career, added: “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.
“Our hearts are so broken as we think about his mom, Whitney, his entire family, and all of his friends and teammates. From high school to San Jose State to Gonzaga to the Grizzlies, Brandon impacted everyone who was part of his life.
“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. We love you, BC.”
NBA commissioner Adam Silver also issued a statement which read: “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 team-mate and leader who played the game with enormous passion and grit.
“Our thoughts and sympathies are with Brandon’s family, friends and the Grizzlies organisation.”
Portland Trail Blazers also paid tribute to the talent, writing: “The Portland Trail Blazers organisation sends its deepest condolences to the family, friends, team-mates and the entire Memphis Grizzlies community following the passing of Brandon Clarke.”
