URGENT UPDATE: Former WNBA All-Star and two-time champion Kara Braxton has tragically died at the age of 43, the league confirmed on social media just moments ago. The cause of her death has not been disclosed, leaving fans and colleagues in shock and mourning.
In a heartfelt statement, the WNBA expressed its sorrow, saying, “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.”
Braxton was drafted No. 7 overall in the 2005 WNBA Draft by the Detroit Shock. She made an immediate impact, averaging 6.9 points and 3.0 rebounds, which earned her a spot on the WNBA All-Rookie Team. Standing at 6-foot-6, the power forward was instrumental in leading the Shock to championships in 2006 and 2008.
After her time with the Shock, Braxton continued her career with the relocated Tulsa Shock, and she also played for the Phoenix Mercury and New York Liberty. Her talent took her overseas, where she played in countries such as Poland, Turkey, China, and Italy until the 2017-18 season.
Born on February 18, 1983, in Jackson, Michigan, Braxton showcased her basketball prowess early on. She began her high school career in Michigan before transferring to Westview High School in Portland, Oregon, where she was named the Oregon Gatorade Player of the Year as a senior. She later played college basketball at the University of Georgia for two-and-a-half seasons before facing dismissal from the team.
After retiring from professional basketball, Braxton worked for Nike in Oregon and later relocated to the Atlanta area. Her legacy continues through her family, including her husband, Jarvis Jackson, and her two sons, Jelani Thurman and Jream Jackson. Notably, her son Jelani was part of the 2024 Ohio State national championship football team.
As the WNBA community reflects on Braxton’s contributions to the sport and mourns her loss, fans are encouraged to share tributes and memories. The impact of her legacy will resonate throughout the league and beyond.
This developing story will continue to be updated as more information becomes available. Stay tuned for the latest details on this tragic loss in the world of sports.
