Clarke, 29, was found unresponsive at a residence in the Los Angeles area on May 11 and was pronounced dead at the scene, authorities said.
“On May 12, a deputy medical examiner conducted an examination of Mr. Clarke at the DME’s Forensic Science Center. The cause and manner of death were certified August 7,” the Los Angeles County DME said.
Due to injuries at the time, Clarke was limited to only two games this season, and the organization had ruled him out for the rest of this season, and he was expected back next season. The Grizzlies announced on March 24 that he would be resuming his rehabilitation for his injuries but that he needed more healing before he was cleared for “high-intensity court work.”
The six-foot-eight forward was selected 21st overall in the 2019 NBA draft and quickly became an important contributor for Memphis. He earned NBA All-Rookie First Team honors in his first season and helped the Grizzlies reach the playoffs during his career.
The Canadian-born athlete played college basketball at San Jose State University and Gonzaga before entering the NBA. In seven seasons with Memphis, he appeared in more than 300 games and averaged 10.2 points and 5.5 rebounds per game.
Supporters paid tribute to Clarke's life and legacy following his death.
The medical examiner said its full report of the cause and manner of Clarke’s death “will be available at a future date.”