Updated: February 23, 2026
The recent passing of Kara Braxton, the two-time WNBA champion and former All-Star, has left fans and the basketball community heartbroken. At just 43 years old, she left behind an incredible legacy on the court and a loving family off it. Many people searching for details about her personal life are curious about Kara Braxton husband — who was the man by her side during her later years?
Kara Braxton’s husband was Jarvis Jackson, a private yet steadfast partner who supported her through retirement, family life, and everything in between. While Kara was a public figure as a powerhouse forward in the WNBA, Jarvis preferred to stay out of the spotlight. Their relationship represented a beautiful balance of love, family focus, and quiet strength, especially as they raised two sons together.
Table of Contents
Who Was Kara Braxton? A Quick Look at Her Life and Career
Kara Liana Braxton was born on February 18, 1983, in Jackson, Michigan. She rose to prominence as a standout high school player after transferring to Westview High School in Beaverton, Oregon, where she earned top honors including Oregon Gatorade Player of the Year.
- Played college basketball at the University of Georgia
- Drafted first overall by the Detroit Shock in 2005
- Won WNBA championships in 2006 and 2008 with Detroit
- Earned All-Star status in 2007
- Played for teams including Tulsa Shock, Phoenix Mercury, and New York Liberty over 10 seasons
- Had a successful international career in countries like Poland, Turkey, China, and Italy
After retiring, Kara worked for Nike in Oregon before relocating to the Atlanta area. She was known not just for her 6-foot-6 frame and dominant post play, but also for her mentorship and kindness off the court.
Kara Braxton’s Husband: Jarvis Jackson and Their Life Together
Jarvis Jackson became Kara Braxton’s husband later in her life, and together they built a warm family unit. While details about their wedding or early relationship aren’t widely publicized — they kept things low-key — Jarvis was a constant source of support.
Here are some key points about their family dynamic:
- They shared a son named Jream Jackson (born around 2020, making him about 4-5 years old in recent years)
- Jarvis helped raise Kara’s older son, Jelani Thurman (born January 2005), whose father is former NFL linebacker Odell Thurman
- Jelani became a talented tight end, contributing to Ohio State’s 2024 national championship team before transferring to North Carolina
- The family emphasized athletics, education, and togetherness — Jarvis was there for the highs and lows of parenting young athletes
Their partnership showed how Kara transitioned from WNBA stardom to family priorities, with Jarvis playing a key role in that chapter.
Family Overview: Kara Braxton’s Loved Ones at a Glance
To give a clear picture of her immediate family circle, here’s a simple table summarizing the key details:
| Family Member | Relation to Kara Braxton | Notable Details |
|---|---|---|
| Jarvis Jackson | Husband | Supportive partner; father of Jream Jackson |
| Jelani Thurman | Son | Tight end; Ohio State 2024 national champ; transferred to North Carolina |
| Jream Jackson | Son | Younger child (approx. 4-6 years old); nicknamed “Dream” |
| Kim Braxton | Twin Sister | Survived Kara; close family bond |
| Odell Thurman | Jelani’s Father | Former NFL linebacker (not married to Kara) |
This table highlights the blended yet loving family Kara nurtured.
The Legacy Kara Leaves Behind
Kara Braxton’s story isn’t just about basketball stats or titles — it’s about resilience, family devotion, and inspiring the next generation. Her sons carry on her athletic spirit, and her husband Jarvis was the quiet anchor who helped make it all possible. In a world where celebrity lives are often overexposed, Kara and Jarvis chose privacy, focusing on what mattered most: love and support at home.
The WNBA and fans worldwide continue to mourn her sudden loss (reportedly in a car accident in Atlanta on February 22, 2026), but her impact endures through memories, tributes, and the family she built.
Rest in peace, Kara. Your strength on and off the court will never be forgotten.