The Los Angeles County Department of Medical Examiner reported that Clarke’s death was an accident caused primarily by the effects of heroin and cocaine. Additionally, multiple prescription medications were noted as significant contributing factors, although the specific drugs were not disclosed. The complete medical examiner’s report is still pending.

Clarke, 29, had a notable seven-year career in the NBA with the Memphis Grizzlies, following his collegiate tenure at Gonzaga. Over 309 games, he averaged 10.2 points and 5.5 rebounds and placed fourth in the Rookie of the Year voting for the 2019-2020 season. His final seasons were marred by injuries, including a torn Achilles tendon in 2023, which sidetracked him for more than a year and limited him to appearances in only two games during the 2025-26 season due to knee and calf issues.

Notably, approximately six weeks before his death, Clarke was arrested in Arkansas on charges including possession and trafficking of a controlled substance stemming from a traffic stop. In the wake of his passing, the Memphis Grizzlies honored Clarke, describing him as an “outstanding teammate and an even better person” whose impact resonated within both the organization and the broader Memphis community.