WNBA confirmed that former star Kara Braxton has died at 43, and although officials did not disclose a cause, the announcement immediately reverberated across the sport, given her role on multiple championship teams.
A dominant interior presence for a decade, Braxton built her reputation on toughness, rebounding, and physical play in the paint, helping anchor elite lineups and earning respect from teammates, opponents, and coaches throughout the league.
“It is with profound sadness that we mourn the passing of 2x WNBA Champion Kara Braxton,” the league said, via X.com (formerly Twitter). “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.”
Selected seventh overall in 2005 by the Detroit Shock, she made an immediate impact, earning All-Rookie honors while providing the interior muscle that complemented a roster already stacked with proven veterans.
Standing 6-foot-6, Braxton became vital to Detroit’s championship runs in 2006 and 2008, using size, strength, and relentless energy to control rebounds, set bruising screens, and defend opposing centers during deep postseason pushes.
After the franchise relocated to Tulsa, she remained with the organization, then later suited up for the Phoenix Mercury and New York Liberty, extending her influence across several markets before retiring.
Tributes pour in for Kara Braxton
Born in Jackson, Michigan, Braxton later moved to Oregon during high school, earning statewide honors before enrolling at the University of Georgia, where her collegiate career ended prematurely.
Two decades later, she returned to complete her degree, fulfilling a long-held ambition and demonstrating persistence beyond basketball. “It has always been a goal of mine to come back and finish school, and finish what I started,” she said. “It’s a very exciting time for me right now.”
Internationally, she continued playing in Poland, Turkey, China, and Italy through the 2017-18 season, extending her career overseas while maintaining the physical, inside-focused style that defined her years in the WNBA.
Following retirement, she worked for Nike in Oregon, remaining connected to athletics and mentorship while focusing on family life and supporting her children’s sporting ambitions.
Reports suggested she may have been involved in a car accident, according to The Oregonian, however no official cause has been confirmed, leaving many details surrounding her sudden death unclear to the public.
Her eldest son, Jelani Thurman, later won a national title with the Ohio State Buckeyes football, reflecting the athletic legacy within the family and the guidance she provided throughout his development.
Monique Currie wrote, “The homie right here. Always love and a good time. A real, genuine friend. No judgment ever. Gonna miss KB big time. Damn sis.”
Whilst one fan said, “NOOOOOOOOO!! Rest in Peace Kara!!”
And a second added, “Incredibly sad news. Deep condolences and comfort to her family and friends.”
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