URGENT UPDATE: The basketball world is in mourning following the sudden death of Kara Braxton, a former WNBA All-Star and two-time champion, who has passed away at just 43 years old. The WNBA confirmed the heartbreaking news on social media, expressing profound sadness over the loss of one of its standout players.
In a statement shared on X, the league said, “It is with profound sadness that we mourn the passing of 2x WNBA Champion Kara Braxton. A 10-season veteran, Kara played 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.” The cause of her death remains undisclosed.
Braxton, a towering 6-foot-6 power forward, was drafted No. 7 overall in the 2005 WNBA Draft by the Detroit Shock. She quickly made her mark, averaging 6.9 points and 3.0 rebounds in her rookie season and earning a spot on the WNBA All-Rookie Team. Her career flourished as she led the Shock to victory in the 2006 and 2008 championships.
Throughout her career, she also played for the Tulsa Shock during its relocation, and had stints with the Phoenix Mercury and New York Liberty. Beyond the WNBA, Braxton showcased her talent internationally, competing in countries like Poland, Turkey, China, and Italy until the 2017-18 season.
Born on February 18, 1983, in Jackson, Michigan, Braxton was a standout athlete from a young age, later transferring to Westview High School in Portland, Oregon. She was named the Oregon Gatorade Player of the Year during her senior year, before moving on to play college basketball at Georgia.
After her retirement from professional basketball, Braxton worked for Nike in Oregon and later moved to the Atlanta area. She is survived by her husband, Jarvis Jackson, and her two sons, Jelani Thurman and Jream Jackson. Notably, Jelani is a member of the 2024 Ohio State national championship football team as a tight end.
As tributes pour in from across the sports community, fans and former teammates are left to reflect on Braxton’s impactful legacy both on and off the court. The WNBA community is encouraged to remember her contributions and celebrate her life during this difficult time.
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story as the basketball world continues to come to terms with this tragic loss.
