Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke has been apprehended in Arkansas on multiple charges, including drug possession and trafficking, as well as traffic violations. This incident casts a shadow over his current NBA season, which has already been significantly impacted by injuries.
Legal Troubles for Grizzlies' Forward
Memphis Grizzlies player Brandon Clarke was taken into custody in Cross County, Arkansas, on Wednesday afternoon. The 29-year-old forward faces a range of serious accusations, including the possession and trafficking of a controlled substance. In addition to the drug-related offenses, Clarke was also charged with two driving infractions: improper passing and fleeing in a vehicle due to excessive speed. The arrest occurred at approximately 1:03 PM CDT, as confirmed by the Cross County Sheriff's Office. Cross County is situated approximately 55 miles west of Memphis, Tennessee. The specific classification of these charges, whether misdemeanors or felonies, was not immediately available on the Sheriff's Office website, though his booking photo was publicly displayed.
The news of Clarke's arrest quickly reached the Memphis Grizzlies organization. Head coach Tuomas Iisalo acknowledged being informed of the reports regarding Clarke's situation but declined to provide further comments ahead of Wednesday's home game against the New York Knicks. This incident marks a significant development for Clarke, who is currently in his seventh season with the Grizzlies. His season has been largely disrupted by injuries, limiting him to only two appearances on the court. He initially missed the start of the season due to a right knee injury, made a brief return in mid-December, but then suffered a right calf injury in his second game back. Consequently, on March 24, the Grizzlies announced that Clarke would be sidelined for the remainder of the season. Throughout his career in Memphis, Clarke has maintained averages of 10.2 points and 5.5 rebounds over 309 games, including 50 starts.
