Jaylen Brown honored the memory of the late Terrence Clarke during the 2024 All-Star Slam Dunk Contest against Mac McClung. Terrence, a Kentucky forward, passed away in April 2021, just three months before the NBA draft. To begin his final round, Jaylen, an All-Star with the Boston Celtics, dedicated a dunk to Terrence by swapping his Celtics jersey for Clarke’s Brewster Academy Number 5 jersey.
Notwithstanding they had no biological relation, Jaylen embraced Terrence as a younger brother, offering guidance throughout his high school and college journey. The dunk contest, therefore, became a touching tribute rather than just a game.
Terrence Clarke passed away in a car crash just months before NBA opportunity
Terrence Clarke’s promising journey toward the NBA was abruptly halted in a tragic car crash, just a few months before he could fully embrace the opportunity that awaited him. The exceptionally talented shooting guard was celebrated as a consensus five-star recruit for Kentucky. He had eagerly declared for the 2021 NBA draft following an incredible college season.
On April 22, 2021, the basketball community was deeply shaken by the untimely passing of this young talent. Not only did players like Jaylen Brown, but basketball came together to pay tributes in honor of the young star. For instance, the Boston Celtics and the NBA decided to immortalize his memory by naming a court at the Vine St. Community Center after him – a place where he had tirelessly played the game he loved so much.
The tragic accident unfolded in Los Angeles, California, following a workout session with fellow draft prospect Brandon Boston Jr. Terrence had signed with Klutch Sports Group just one day before his fateful demise. However, in a symbolic gesture, they selected him between the 14th and 15th overall picks.
Where is Terrence Clarke from?
Terrence Clarke was born on September 6, 2001, in Boston, Massachusetts to Osmine Clarke and Adrian Briggs. Clarke started playing basketball at Rivers School in Weston, Massachusetts but later moved to Brewster Academy after his first year. At Rivers, he earned a spot on the All-New England Preparatory School Athletic Council Class B team.
Jaylen Brown opens the #ATTSlamDunk final round with a tribute to Terrence Clarke 💙#ATTSlamDunk x #StateFarmSaturday on TNT pic.twitter.com/hzEYsWb1AO
— NBA (@NBA) February 18, 2024
The switch to Brewster Academy turned out to be a good one. Terrence played a cornerstone role in securing the 2019 National Prep Championships. In his senior year, he displayed remarkable skills. He averaged 18.3 points, 5.8 rebounds, and three assists per game, contributing to Brewster’s outstanding 34–3 record.
His college debut on November 25, 2020, was memorable. He posted 12 points, four rebounds, four assists, and three steals in a decisive 81–45 win over Morehead State. Making a significant decision, on March 19, 2021, he announced that he would be giving up his remaining college years to enter the 2021 NBA draft.