WNBA Champion Kara Braxton Passes Away at 43

Kara Braxton, a two-time WNBA champion and a significant player in the league for almost a decade, has passed away at the age of 43. The WNBA made the announcement on Monday, expressing deep grief over her loss.

“It is with deep sadness that we mourn the passing of two-time WNBA champion Kara Braxton,” the league stated. They noted her impressive ten-season career playing for teams like the Detroit Shock, Tulsa Shock, Phoenix Mercury, and New York Liberty. The league extended its thoughts and prayers to her family, friends, and former teammates during this tough time.

Drafted seventh overall by the Detroit Shock in 2005 after her collegiate career at Georgia, Braxton earned All-Star recognition in 2007. She was also part of the championship teams in 2006 and 2008, which is quite an achievement.

After staying with the Shock during their move to Tulsa, she eventually found herself traded to the Phoenix Mercury and then to the New York Liberty. Unfortunately, her career took a hit in 2016 when she was released by the Atlanta Dream.

The New York Liberty reflected on Braxton’s impact, stating, “We mourn the loss of former Liberty player Kara Braxton, whose presence and passion left a lasting impact on our organization and the women’s game. Our hearts are with her family, friends, teammates, and all those touched by her spirit. Her impact will never be forgotten.”

Throughout her career, Braxton averaged about 7.6 points and 4.7 rebounds across 297 games. Her legacy will certainly resonate within the WNBA community. It’s a heavy loss for everyone who knew her or admired her remarkable achievements on and off the court.