Kara Braxton dies at 43: Remembering the 2-time WNBA Champion and Detroit shock star
Kara Braxton was selected by the Shock with the seventh pick in the 2005 WNBA draft and went on to win two championships with Detroit, in 2006 and 2008. Image Credit: Garrett Ellwood/NBAE via Getty Images
The basketball world is mourning the loss of Kara Braxton, a two-time WNBA champion and former All-Star, who has died at the age of 43. The WNBA confirmed her passing in a statement Sunday, expressing profound sadness and extending condolences to her family, friends, and former teammates.
No cause of death has been disclosed.
Braxton was widely respected for her dominance in the paint and her contributions to championship-winning teams. Over a decade-long professional career, she established herself as a key presence in the league.
WNBA Confirms Passing of Two-Time Champion
In an official statement, the WNBA described Braxton as a two-time champion whose impact on the game would not be forgotten. Tributes have continued to pour in across the basketball community following the announcement.
Her death marks a significant loss for the league and for fans who followed her career from college standout to professional champion.
Championship Success with Detroit Shock
Braxton’s legacy is closely tied to her time with the Detroit Shock. Selected No. 7 overall in the 2005 WNBA Draft, she quickly made her presence known.
She earned All-Rookie Team honors in her debut season and played a pivotal role in helping the franchise secure WNBA championships in 2006 and 2008.
Standing at 6-foot-6, the center-forward brought size, physicality, and defensive intensity to the court. Her ability to protect the rim and contribute offensively made her a crucial part of Detroit’s championship core.
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All-Star Recognition and Career Highlights
In 2007, Braxton was named a WNBA All-Star, solidifying her reputation as one of the league’s top interior players at the time.
Across 10 seasons in the WNBA, she averaged 7.6 points and 4.7 rebounds per game. While her statistics reflected steady production, her influence often extended beyond the box score, particularly during postseason runs.
After the Shock relocated to Tulsa in 2010, Braxton spent part of that season with the franchise before being traded to the Phoenix Mercury. During the 2011 season, she was traded again, this time to the New York Liberty, where she concluded her WNBA career in 2014.
College Standout at Georgia
Before her professional success, Braxton starred at Georgia from 2001 to 2004. She was named SEC Freshman of the Year in 2002 and became one of the program’s most impactful players during her collegiate tenure.
Her performance at Georgia positioned her as a high draft pick and future WNBA contributor.
Family and Personal Life
Braxton is survived by her husband and two sons. Her son, Jelani Thurman, has built his own athletic path as a college football tight end. He spent three seasons at Ohio State before transferring to North Carolina in January.
As tributes continue, many have highlighted Braxton’s role not only as an athlete but also as a mother and mentor.
A Lasting Legacy in the WNBA
Braxton’s career coincided with a competitive era in the WNBA, and her championship contributions remain part of league history. As the basketball community reflects on her life, her impact as a champion and All-Star continues to resonate.
Her legacy is defined by resilience, strength, and championship success.
FAQ
Who was Kara Braxton?
Kara Braxton was a professional basketball player and two-time WNBA champion known for her time with the Detroit Shock. She played 10 seasons in the WNBA and was an All-Star in 2007.
How old was Kara Braxton when she died?
She was 43 years old at the time of her death.
What was Kara Braxton’s cause of death?
As of the latest reports, no cause of death has been publicly disclosed.
How many championships did Kara Braxton win?
Braxton won two WNBA championships, both with the Detroit Shock in 2006 and 2008.
What teams did Kara Braxton play for?
During her WNBA career, she played for the Detroit Shock, Tulsa Shock, Phoenix Mercury, and New York Liberty.
Was Kara Braxton an All-Star?
Yes, she was named a WNBA All-Star in 2007 and earned All-Rookie Team honors in 2005.
Where did Kara Braxton play college basketball?
She played at Georgia from 2001 to 2004 and was named SEC Freshman of the Year in 2002.
Did Kara Braxton have children?
Yes, she is survived by her husband and two sons. Her son Jelani Thurman is a college football player.