There was only one game in the NBA on Wednesday, with the San Antonio Spurs blowing out the Minnesota Timberwolves to take a 3-2 series lead. The day was nonetheless quite eventful, as a lot happened—including the loss of not one but two lives.
Memphis Grizzlies’ Brandon Clarke Dies
The NBA world was rocked by the sad news that Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke was found dead in a home in Los Angeles. While no cause of death has been reported, it is believed that it could be narcotics-related after illicit drugs were found in the home.
“Brandon was an outstanding teammate and an even better person whose impact on the organization and the greater Memphis community will not be forgotten,” the team said in a statement.
Clarke, who was 29, played seven seasons for the Grizzlies. He holds career averages of 10.2 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 1.3 assists.
Ex-Pro Jason Collins Dies of Brain Cancer
Just hours after Clarke’s untimely death, the NBA world was again rocked by another loss, this time of former player Jason Collins. The amiable big man died of glioblastoma, one of the deadliest forms of brain cancer.
Collins, 47, played 13 seasons in the NBA. He started his career with the New Jersey Nets and then played with the Memphis Grizzlies, Minnesota Timberwolves, Atlanta Hawks, Boston Celtics, and Washington Wizards.
A global ambassador of the NBA over the past decade, Collins had a rather modest career. However, he was a trailblazer in his own right when, in 2013, he came out as gay—becoming the first openly gay active player in all four major sports leagues in the United States.
Bucks Escape NBA Punishment
In other news, the Milwaukee Bucks will not be punished by the NBA over their refusal to let Giannis Antetokounmpo play at the tail end of the season.
The NBA initiated an investigation on the Bucks early last month after Antetokounmpo and the team relayed different stories about his ability to return to the court. The Greek Freak hyperextended his left knee on March 15 and did not appear again for the Bucks during the regular season, even after saying he was healthy enough to play.
This news comes after the Bucks announced they will be taking offers for their superstar, who has seemingly grown disgruntled in Milwaukee.
Sixers Move On From Daryl Morey
The Philadelphia 76ers have let go of Daryl Morey, who was the team’s president of basketball operations for the past six seasons. His tenure saw the 76ers accumulate a 270-212 regular season record with five playoff appearances. However, the Sixers’ best finish under Morey was a pair of second-round exits.
“I have a tremendous amount of respect for Daryl personally and professionally, and I’m grateful for his contributions over the last six seasons,” said Sixers managing partner Josh Harris in a statement. “After speaking with Daryl, we determined that it was time for a fresh start.”
One of Morey’s more notable moves during his time in Philadelphia was trading for James Harden in 2022. However, Morey was forced to trade Harden a season later after the 76ers declined to give The Beard a long-term max contract.
