Two-time WNBA champion Kara Braxton, a 10-season league veteran, has passed away at the age of 43. The WNBA shared the news on Sunday, expressing deep sorrow over her loss.
WNBA Statement on Braxton’s Passing
“It is with profound sadness that we mourn the passing of 2x WNBA Champion Kara Braxton,” the WNBA stated. The league highlighted her career with the Detroit Shock, Tulsa Shock, Phoenix Mercury, and New York Liberty. “Our thoughts are with her family, friends, and former teammates at this time.”
No details on the cause of death or location have been released. Braxton celebrated her birthday just days earlier on Wednesday.
Professional Career Highlights
Drafted seventh overall by the Detroit Shock in the 2005 WNBA Draft, the 6-foot-6 forward/center played 297 regular-season games, averaging 7.6 points, 4.7 rebounds, and 16.5 minutes per game across 120 starts. Her teams included Detroit and Tulsa (2005-10), Phoenix (2010-11), and New York (2011-14).
In 46 playoff appearances (11 starts), Braxton posted averages of 7.2 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 16.1 minutes. She secured championships with the Detroit Shock in 2006 and 2008, before the franchise moved to Tulsa in 2010. Additional honors include the 2005 All-Rookie Team selection and a 2007 All-Star nod.
The New York Liberty honored her on X, stating: “We mourn the loss of Kara Braxton, a former Liberty player whose presence and passion left a lasting impact on our organization and the women’s game. Our hearts are with her family, friends, teammates, and all who were touched by her spirit. Her impact will not be forgotten.”
College and Early Career
Born in Jackson, Michigan, Braxton starred at Westview High School in Portland, Oregon. At the University of Georgia from 2001-04, she averaged 15.4 points, 7.3 rebounds, 2.0 assists, 1.6 steals, 1.8 blocks, and 24.0 minutes over 71 games. She earned Southeastern Conference Rookie of the Year, All-Freshman, and All-SEC honors in 2001-02.
Braxton extended her playing career overseas through the 2017-18 season. After retiring, she worked for Nike in Oregon before relocating to the Atlanta area.
Family
Braxton is survived by her husband, Jarvis Jackson, and sons Jream Jackson and Jelani Thurman. Jelani Thurman served as a tight end on Ohio State’s 2024 national championship team and transferred to North Carolina following his third season.
