SouthernWorldwide.com – The fiancée of the late Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke has shared a deeply emotional tribute to the 29-year-old player following his recent passing.
Clarke’s death was announced by the Grizzlies and the NBA last week. Reports from The Associated Press indicate that the player was discovered deceased in his Los Angeles-area home on Monday. Drug paraphernalia was reportedly found at the residence, and first responders pronounced him dead at the scene.
Amber Lorraine, Clarke’s fiancée, expressed her profound grief over the weekend. She posted a heartfelt message on her Instagram account, accompanied by photographs of the couple together.
“There are no words to describe this feeling,” Lorraine wrote on her account, which has since been made private. “I never thought I’d have to live life without you.”
She described Clarke as “the most special person, with the biggest heart.” Lorraine also revealed that the couple was planning to be married soon, and that the day he proposed to her had been the “happiest day” of her life.
“This world isn’t the same without you,” she added, conveying the immense void left by his absence.
The Memphis Grizzlies issued a statement last week expressing their sorrow over Clarke’s death. He had been a member of the team for the past seven seasons.
“We are heartbroken by the tragic loss of Brandon Clarke,” the team stated. “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.”
NBA Commissioner Adam Silver also released a statement regarding Clarke’s untimely passing.
“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 teammate and leader who played the game with enormous passion and grit. Our thoughts and sympathies are with Brandon’s family, friends and the Grizzlies organization.”
In April, Clarke had faced legal issues. He was arrested in Arkansas on charges that included speeding and possession of a controlled substance.
He was booked into the Cross County Jail on multiple charges, including improper passing, possession of a controlled substance, fleeing, exceeding the speed limit, and trafficking a controlled substance.
Clarke was scheduled to appear in court last week, a date that tragically coincided with the announcement of his death.
