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The basketball world is mourning the sudden and heartbreaking loss of Kara Braxton, a beloved icon in women’s basketball. Known for her electrifying presence on the court, Braxton captivated fans for over a decade. The two-time WNBA champion and 2007 All-Star tragically died at 43 following a severe car accident in Georgia.
As news of her passing spreads, former teammates, fans, and the broader sports community are coming together to celebrate her life and remarkable contributions to the game.
Who Was Kara Braxton?
Kara Braxton was a powerhouse in women’s basketball, renowned for her towering 6-foot-6 frame and fierce competitiveness in the post. Originally from Jackson, Michigan, she first made waves at Westview High School in Oregon, earning Gatorade Player of the Year honors before advancing her career at the University of Georgia.
During her time as a Bulldog, Braxton clinched the SEC Freshman of the Year award in 2002, quickly becoming one of the most exciting prospects in college basketball. She entered the WNBA Draft in 2005, launching her professional career.
How Did Kara Braxton Die?
The Cobb County Police Department confirmed that Braxton’s death was due to a single-vehicle accident on Saturday afternoon. Initial investigations suggest she was driving a 2023 Ford Mustang northbound on Interstate 285 near Cobb Parkway when she lost control and struck a concrete median.
Her car came to a stop on the left shoulder, and despite being swiftly transported to Wellstar Kennestone Hospital in Marietta, she was sadly pronounced dead shortly thereafter. Authorities have noted that the accident is still under investigation, with toxicology reports pending as part of the standard protocol.
Where Did the Incident Take Place?
The unfortunate incident occurred in Cobb County, Georgia, just outside Atlanta on Interstate 285, a major highway encircling the city.
Braxton had been living in College Park, Georgia, after moving to the Atlanta area following her retirement from professional basketball. Before relocating south to be nearer to family, she had been employed by Nike in Oregon.
Was Kara Braxton Married or With Family at the Time?
Kara Braxton was married to Jarvis Jackson, and together they created a lovely family. She is survived by her husband and their two sons: Jelani Thurman and Jream Jackson. Jelani, who is a promising tight end from a previous relationship with former NFL linebacker Odell Thurman, has already made a name for himself in college football.
He was part of Ohio State’s 2024 national championship team before recently transferring to the University of North Carolina. In a heartfelt tribute on social media, he shared a photo collage with his mother, stating simply, “Imma miss my queen.”
Kara Braxton’s WNBA Career and Championship Wins
Braxton was drafted as the seventh overall pick by the Detroit Shock in the 2005 WNBA Draft, making an immediate impact by earning All-Rookie Team recognition. She quickly became an essential part of the Shock’s dynasty, aiding the franchise in winning WNBA championships in 2006 and 2008.
Her strength and tenacity in the frontcourt suited Detroit’s physical playing style, allowing her to contribute significantly behind stars like Cheryl Ford and Swin Cash. Throughout her ten-year career, she also played for the Tulsa Shock, Phoenix Mercury, and New York Liberty before retiring in 2014.
Kara Braxton’s Legacy in Women’s Basketball
Beyond her championships and statistics, Kara Braxton leaves a legacy defined by passion and determination. She was a player who wore her emotions openly and inspired numerous young athletes throughout her journey.
After her time in the WNBA, she continued her career abroad in countries such as Poland, Turkey, China, and Italy, accumulating two Polish league championships and an MVP award in the Chinese league. Her son Jelani continuing the family’s athletic legacy stands as a testament to the foundation she established.
What Made Kara Braxton a Two-Time WNBA Champion?
Braxton’s distinctive blend of size and skill set her apart. At 6-foot-6, she presented a matchup problem, able to score with her back to the basket while also stepping outside for mid-range shots. Her most productive seasons were with the Phoenix Mercury in 2010 and 2011, during which she averaged over 10 points per game with an impressive shooting percentage of 55% from the field.
However, her willingness to engage in the tougher aspects of the game such as grabbing rebounds, setting screens, and defending the paint rendered her an invaluable component of the championship-caliber Detroit teams.
Kara Braxton’s Career Highlights and Achievements
- Two-time WNBA Champion (2006, 2008) with the Detroit Shock
- WNBA All-Star (2007)
- WNBA All-Rookie Team (2005)
- SEC Freshman of the Year (2002) at the University of Georgia
- Chinese League MVP and Championship (2010)
- Two-time Polish League Champion
- Averaged 7.6 points and 4.7 rebounds over 297 career WNBA games