Kara Braxton, a revered figure in women’s basketball and a two-time WNBA champion with the Detroit Shock, has passed away at the age of 43.

The cause of her death has not been publicly disclosed.

The WNBA expressed deep sorrow, releasing a statement mourning the loss of a champion and extending condolences to her family, friends, and former teammates.

Braxton’s basketball journey began at the University of Georgia, where she played from 2001 to 2004.

The 6-foot-6 center-forward earned SEC Freshman of the Year honors in 2002 and quickly drew attention from professional scouts.

She was selected as the No. 7 overall pick in the 2005 WNBA Draft by the Detroit Shock.

Her rookie season was impactful, earning her a spot on the league’s All-Rookie Team.

Braxton became a key contributor to the Shock, helping the team secure WNBA championships in 2006 and 2008, cementing her legacy in league history.

After her tenure with Detroit, Braxton continued her career with several teams, including Tulsa, Phoenix Mercury, and New York Liberty, concluding her WNBA career in 2014.

Across 10 seasons, she averaged 7.6 points and 4.7 rebounds per game, earning an All-Star selection in 2007.

Beyond basketball, Kara Braxton was a mother.

Her son, Jelani Thurman, has pursued collegiate football, playing as a tight end for Ohio State before transferring to North Carolina in January, continuing the family’s athletic legacy.