Brandon Clarke

Brandon Clarke, born on September 19, 1996, is a Canadian-American professional basketball player best known for his performance with the Memphis Grizzlies of the National Basketball Association (NBA). His career has been marked by tremendous strides and remarkable achievements, ranging from being named to the NBA All-Rookie First Team in 2020 to putting up history-making performances at the collegiate level.

A part of a loving family, Clarke is one of four siblings. He was born in Vancouver, British Columbia, to a Canadian mother and a Jamaican father. When he was three, his family moved to Phoenix, Arizona, essentially making him a dual citizen of Canada and the United States. Clarke’s passion for basketball was nurtured during his time at Desert Vista High School in Phoenix, where he was named an All-Arizona Division 1 honoree by the Arizona Republic. His exceptional talent saw him lead his high school to the championship game in 2015.

Going on to the professional level, Clarke began his college basketball journey with the San Jose State University Spartans Men’s basketball team where his sturdy performances saw him named as the Mountain West Sixth Man of the Year. As a sophomore, Clarke’s game reached new heights, averaging impressive scores and earning a spot on both the All-Mountain West First Team and Mountain West All-Defensive Team.

Deciding to take on a new challenge, Clarke transferred to Gonzaga, where he further honed his skills during the 2017-18 season. His junior season witnessed remarkable improvements that culminated in him becoming the West Coast Conference’s Defensive Player of the Year, and earning a place in the All-WCC First Team.

In the 2019 NBA draft, Clarke was selected with the 21st overall pick by the Oklahoma City Thunder, before being swiftly traded to the Memphis Grizzlies. During the 2019 NBA Summer League, Clarke shone brilliantly, becoming the first non-American to win both championship MVP and the title of the most valuable player.

During the 2019-20 NBA season, Clarke was hit with a right quadriceps injury, but came back stronger the following season, earning a place on the NBA All-Rookie First Team in 2020. In 2021, Clarke helped the Grizzlies qualify for the postseason for the first time since 2017. Throughout the league, he consistently demonstrated his skills, scoring season-high points and contributing significantly to his team’s performance.

Regrettably, the 2022-23 season was cut short for Clarke due to a severe left leg injury during a game against the Denver Nuggets. Despite the sudden turn of events, Clarke remains resolute, signing a four-year contract extension with the Grizzlies valued at $52 million.

Clarke’s passion for basketball extends beyond his professional obligations. He has expressed a desire to represent the Canadian national team in future tournaments. His love for the game is undeniable, and his zeal propels him forward, regardless of the challenges he faces. Through his multifaceted career, from high school achievements to professional accolades, Clarke continues to solidify himself as a formidable force in basketball. His journey serves as a testament to his relentless drive, impressive talent, and unwavering dedication to the sport.