The family of late Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke will receive the entire $12.5 million remaining on his contract, with the payment expected to be covered through life insurance, according to Yahoo Sports.
Clarke’s agent, Mark Bartelstein, clarified that the player’s contract included full protection in the event of his death.
“It was very disappointing to see the misinformation that was reported,” Bartelstein said. “Brandon’s contract was fully protected for a God-forbid occurrence. So Brandon’s family and his estate are fully protected in Brandon’s contract.”
The $12.5 million represents what remained from the four-year, $50 million extension Clarke signed with Memphis.
Bartelstein also praised the Grizzlies for their support following Clarke’s death.
“The Grizzlies have been an incredible partner in supporting Brandon from the moment they drafted him,” he said. “The support that the entire Grizzlies organization has shown to Brandon’s family during this devastating time has been beyond words. And we all could not be more appreciative.”
Clarke died at age 29 in May from an accidental overdose involving heroin and cocaine, according to the Los Angeles County medical examiner.
The 2019 draft pick spent all seven of his NBA seasons with Memphis, averaging 10.2 points and 5.5 rebounds per game.
“We are heartbroken by the tragic loss of Brandon Clarke,” the Grizzlies said following his death. “Brandon was an outstanding teammate and an even better person whose impact on the organization and the greater Memphis community will not be forgotten.”
Brandon Clarke’s family to receive full $12.5 million contract after death https://t.co/5bYNzfcPhs pic.twitter.com/IKK2Ds3Cc6
— New York Post (@nypost) August 15, 2026
