The WNBA is mourning the loss of one of its champions.
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Kara Braxton, a two-time WNBA title winner with the Detroit Shock, has died at the age of 43, the league announced Sunday. No cause of death was disclosed.
"It is with profound sadness that we mourn the passing of two-time WNBA champion Kara Braxton," the league said in a statement. "Our thoughts are with her family, friends, and former teammates."
Braxton was selected seventh overall in the 2005 WNBA Draft and made an immediate impact, earning All-Rookie Team honors that same season. Standing six foot six, she brought size, toughness, and presence to the paint during a decade-long professional career.
She won championships with Detroit in 2006 and 2008 and was named a WNBA All-Star in 2007. Braxton also played for the Tulsa Shock, Phoenix Mercury, and New York Liberty, finishing her career in 2014. Across ten seasons, she averaged 7.6 points and 4.7 rebounds per game.
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. pic.twitter.com/0I71xWCWfW
— WNBA (@WNBA) February 23, 2026
Before the pros, Braxton starred at Georgia Bulldogs, where she was named SEC Freshman of the Year in 2002.
Her son, Jelani Thurman, shared a heartfelt tribute on Instagram, writing, "Imma miss my queen," alongside photos that reflected a close bond between mother and son.
Braxton's legacy lives on through championships, teammates she impacted, and the family she loved.
