Updated: February 23, 2026
The tragic loss of Kara Braxton, a beloved two-time WNBA champion, has shocked the basketball world. The former star passed away following a car accident in Atlanta, Georgia, at the age of 43. This heartbreaking incident occurred over the weekend, with reports confirming her death on Saturday, February 21, 2026 (some sources note February 22 announcements). The WNBA and fans everywhere are grieving the sudden departure of a talented athlete and kind person.
Table of Contents
Who Was Kara Braxton? A Basketball Legacy
Kara Braxton was a dominant force in women’s basketball for over a decade. Standing at 6’6″, she brought power, skill, and heart to the court as a forward/center. Born on February 18, 1983, in Jackson, Michigan, she later moved and starred at Westview High School in Beaverton, Oregon, before shining at the University of Georgia.
Drafted seventh overall by the Cleveland Rockers in 2005 (the team relocated, leading to her joining the Detroit Shock), Braxton quickly made her mark. She won WNBA championships with the Detroit Shock in 2006 and 2008, contributing to one of the league’s most successful eras. Over her 10-season career, she played for:
- Detroit Shock / Tulsa Shock
- Phoenix Mercury
- New York Liberty
Her stats showed consistent impact: strong rebounding, scoring in the post, and defensive presence. Beyond the WNBA, she played internationally, including in Korea’s WKBL with the Cheongju KB Stars, earning her fans globally.
- Key highlights:
- Two-time WNBA champion (2006, 2008)
- 10-year veteran with career averages around 8-10 points and 5-6 rebounds per game
- Known for her versatility and leadership
Braxton retired in 2014 but remained connected to the game through her passion and community ties, especially in Oregon where her high school roots ran deep.
Details of the Tragic Car Accident
The accident happened in Atlanta, Georgia, on February 21, 2026. Multiple reliable sources, including local Oregon media like The Oregonian and KGW, report that Braxton died in a car accident. The WNBA confirmed her passing on February 22 without specifying the cause initially, but widespread reports from outlets like ESPN, Marca, and Sportskeeda point to the fatal crash.
No further details on the circumstances—such as other vehicles involved, road conditions, or contributing factors—have been officially released yet. Investigations may still be ongoing, and authorities have not provided an official cause of death statement. The sudden nature of the news left fans and former teammates devastated, with many sharing heartfelt tributes online describing her as one of the kindest people in the sport.
Tributes Pour In from the WNBA Community
The basketball family responded quickly with an outpouring of love and memories. The WNBA issued a statement: “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.”
Former teams like the New York Liberty shared: “We mourn the loss of Kara Braxton, a former Liberty player whose presence and passion left a lasting impact on our organization and the women’s game.”
Friends, teammates, and fans flooded social media with messages calling her a “sweetheart,” “legend,” and “one of the kindest human beings.” Her impact extended far beyond stats—she inspired many with her journey from high school standout to pro champion.
Key Information at a Glance
Here’s a quick overview of the key details surrounding this sad event:
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Kara Liana Braxton |
| Date of Birth | February 18, 1983 |
| Age at Passing | 43 |
| Date of Incident | February 21, 2026 (Saturday) |
| Location | Atlanta, Georgia |
| Reported Cause | Car accident (per multiple media reports) |
| WNBA Career | 2005–2014, 10 seasons |
| Championships | 2 (Detroit Shock: 2006, 2008) |
| Teams Played For | Detroit/Tulsa Shock, Phoenix Mercury, New York Liberty |
| Official Confirmation | WNBA statement on February 22, 2026 |
Conclusion: Remembering a True Champion
Kara Braxton’s passing is a profound loss for the WNBA and everyone who knew her. She wasn’t just a champion on the court; she was a trailblazer who brought joy, strength, and warmth to those around her. At only 43, her life ended too soon, but her legacy—two titles, countless memories, and the inspiration she gave to young players—will live on.
Our thoughts are with her family, friends, former teammates, and all who loved her during this difficult time. Rest in peace, Kara. You touched so many lives, and you’ll never be forgotten.