Kara Braxton, a former standout forward for the Phoenix Mercury and two-time WNBA champion, passed away at the age of 43 on Sunday, according to an announcement made by the league on Monday. Braxton’s career and legacy remain significant within professional women’s basketball circles.
Career Highlights and League Contributions
Standing 6-foot-6, Kara Braxton was selected seventh overall in the 2005 WNBA Draft by the Detroit Shock after her collegiate career at Georgia. She earned All-Rookie honors in her debut season, later receiving an All-Star nomination in 2007. Braxton won league championships in 2006 with Detroit and again in 2008. After the Detroit Shock franchise moved to Tulsa in 2010, she was traded to the Phoenix Mercury, where she played 54 games and achieved career-high averages of 10.9 points per game and a 55.2% shooting percentage. During the 2011 season, Braxton was traded to the New York Liberty and retired three years later after a decade-long WNBA career.
Personal Life and Family Details
No cause of death has been officially revealed. Kara Braxton leaves behind her husband, Jarvis Jackson, and their two sons, Jelani and Jream. Jelani Braxton, noted for his athletic ability as a former four-star tight end prospect, now plays college football at North Carolina, having transferred from Ohio State in January.
Remembering Kara Braxton’s Impact
The WNBA expressed deep sorrow over Braxton’s passing, highlighting her contributions over ten seasons with multiple teams.
“It is with profound sadness that we mourn the passing of 2x WNBA Champion Kara Braxton,”
the league stated.
“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.”
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
