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The WNBA announced the death of Kara Braxton.
It has been a challenging few days in the sports world as the WNBA announced the death of former player Kara Braxton. The news comes days after the unexpected death of 25-year-old NFL wide receiver Rondale Moore.
Braxton’s cause of death has not been released at this time. The former WNBA player had just celebrated her 43rd birthday prior to her tragic death.
“It is with profound sadness that we mourn the passing of 2x WNBA Champion Kara Braxton,” the WNBA detailed in a February 22, 2026, message on X.
“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.”
Braxton leaves behind a loving family, including her son North Carolina tight end Jelani Thurman.
Kara Braxton Was a 2-Time WNBA Champion & Former All-Star
Braxton was selected by the Detroit Shock with the No. 7 overall pick in the 2005 WNBA draft. In addition to the Shock, Braxton also had stints with the Phoenix Mercury and New York Liberty, playing in 297 games over her career, including 120 starts.
Braxton was named an All-Star in 2007 and her impressive resume included being a 2-time WNBA champion with the Detroit Shock. She last played in the WNBA in 2014. Braxton also played internationally in Turkey, Russia, South Korea, Israel and China.
While with the Shock, Braxton was named an All-Star in 2007. At the time, Braxton labeled the honor a total surprise.
“I was totally surprised because there are so many good centers and players in the league,” Braxton told WNBA.com in 2007. “I was grateful just to have my name amongst the other names on the ballot.
“But to be voted as a starter and to have the most votes at my position in the conference, I was really shocked.”
Condolences Have Been Pouring in on Social Media Following Kara Braxton’s Death
The former WNBA standout played college basketball at Georgia. Condolences have been pouring in across social media, including a heartfelt statement from the Atlanta Dream, an area that was particular special to Braxton.
“The Dream family mourns the loss of former WNBA player, Kara Braxton,” the Dream said in a statement. “Kara called Atlanta home and played at the University of Georgia.
“Our hearts are with Kara’s husband and sons and all those who remember her at this difficult time.”
Kara Braxton’s Son Jelani Thurman Is a College Football Player at North Carolina
Thurman played the last three college football seasons at Ohio State before announcing his transfer to North Carolina this offseason. Braxton’s son took to Instagram to share his thoughts on his mother’s passing.
“My love, I’m so sorry,” Thurman noted in an Instagram Story on February 22. “Our moms truly raised us with so much love our childhood was something special because of them.
“She did everything for her babies. She was and always will be an incredible mother. My heart hurts so deeply for you.”
Jonathan Adams is a veteran sports contributor covering the NFL, NBA and golf for Heavy.com. His work has been prominently featured on NFL.com, Yahoo Sports, Pro Football Talk, CBS Sports, Bleacher Report and Sports Illustrated. More about Jonathan Adams
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