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Ypsilanti Today
By the People, for the People
Two-time WNBA champion Kara Braxton dies at 43
The league mourns the passing of the former Detroit Shock star
Published on Feb. 23, 2026
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Kara Braxton, a two-time WNBA champion with the Detroit Shock, has died at the age of 43. The league announced her passing in a statement, though no cause of death was provided. Braxton was a standout center-forward who played 10 seasons in the WNBA, making the All-Star team in 2007 and winning titles with the Shock in 2006 and 2008.
Why it matters
Braxton was a beloved figure in the WNBA, known for her dominant play and championship pedigree. Her passing at a relatively young age is a tragic loss for the league and the basketball community. As a two-time champion, she left an indelible mark on the sport.
The details
Braxton was the No. 7 overall pick by the Detroit Shock in the 2005 WNBA draft and went on to make the league's all-rookie team that season. Over her 10-year career, she played for the Shock, Tulsa Shock, Phoenix Mercury, and New York Liberty, averaging 7.6 points and 4.7 rebounds per game. She was named an All-Star in 2007.
- Braxton was drafted by the Detroit Shock in 2005.
- She won WNBA championships with the Shock in 2006 and 2008.
- Braxton was named a WNBA All-Star in 2007.
- She finished her WNBA career with the New York Liberty in 2014.
The players
Kara Braxton
A two-time WNBA champion and All-Star who played 10 seasons in the league, primarily with the Detroit Shock.
Jelani Thurman
Braxton's son, who played tight end at Ohio State and North Carolina.
What they’re saying
“Imma miss my queen”
— Jelani Thurman (Instagram)
The takeaway
Kara Braxton's passing at just 43 years old is a tragic loss for the WNBA and basketball community. As a two-time champion and All-Star, she left an indelible mark on the game and inspired many with her dominant play on the court. Her son's heartfelt tribute underscores the profound impact she had off the court as well.
