The WNBA announced Sunday that two-time champion Kara Braxton has died at 43.
“It is with profound sadness that we mourn the passing of 2x WNBA Champion Kara Braxton,” the WNBA said.
“Our thoughts are with her family, friends, and former teammates at this time.”
No cause of death was released.
Player profile
Braxton was a 6-foot-6 forward known for her strength in the paint and relentless motor.
She played college basketball at Georgia from 2001 to 2004 and emerged as a pro-ready post presence in the SEC.
The Detroit Shock selected her with the seventh overall pick in the 2005 WNBA draft and she made an immediate impact as a rookie.
She earned a spot on the WNBA All-Rookie Team in her debut season.
Braxton won two WNBA titles with Detroit in 2006 and 2008 and was later chosen as an All-Star in 2007.
Pro journey
Her professional path mirrored the league’s changes as she moved with the franchise to Tulsa, was traded to the Phoenix Mercury, and then landed with the New York Liberty during the 2011 season.
She remained in New York through the end of her career and retired in 2014.
Across 10 WNBA seasons, she averaged 7.6 points and 4.7 rebounds per game.
Teammates and coaches often valued her for effort plays that do not always show up in a box score but can swing possessions.
Legacy and family
A spokesman for the Liberty remembered her impact beyond the stat line.
“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,” the spokesman said.
“Our hearts are with her family, friends, teammates, and all who were touched by her spirit.”
Her impact will not be forgotten.
Basketball ran in the family and her son, Jelani, was part of Ohio State’s 2024 national championship-winning team.
Jelani transferred last month to Bill Belichick’s program at the University of North Carolina.
The league did not provide additional details Sunday.
Fans who admire grit, commitment, and family-first values will remember Braxton for the toughness she brought to the court and the legacy she leaves behind.
