The women’s basketball world is reeling from the tragic and sudden loss of Kara Braxton, a powerful and respected former WNBA player whose presence on the court left a lasting mark. She passed away on February 21, 2026, at age 43, following a fatal car accident in Atlanta, Georgia.
Born Kara Liana Braxton on February 18, 1983, in Jackson, Michigan, she grew up to become a standout talent. Standing at 6-foot-6 and weighing around 225 pounds, she brought a commanding force to the paint with her strong rebounding, tough defense, and relentless drive that intimidated opponents while firing up her teammates.
During her college years at the University of Georgia from 2001 to 2005, Braxton developed into one of the top post players in the country. She excelled at scoring inside and controlling the boards, helping the Bulldogs achieve strong seasons in the SEC. Her impressive play earned her a spot as the sixth overall pick in the first round of the 2005 WNBA Draft by the Cleveland Rockers.
Braxton’s pro career lasted nine seasons in the WNBA, from 2005 to 2013. She started with the Cleveland Rockers, then moved to the New York Liberty (2006–2008), Phoenix Mercury (2009–2010), Tulsa Shock (2011), and returned to the New York Liberty (2012–2013). Across 228 regular-season games, she averaged 7.0 points, 5.1 rebounds, and 0.9 blocks per game, shooting 47.9% from the field.
She was known as a rugged, physical player who thrived in the post—grabbing tough rebounds, playing intense defense, and scoring through contact. Beyond the WNBA, Braxton represented the U.S. on international stages, earning gold medals with the U18 and U21 national teams and helping the senior team win the 2007 FIBA Americas Championship.
Off the court, Kara earned admiration for her down-to-earth personality, strong work ethic, and positive impact on younger players. Teammates and coaches from throughout her career described her as a reliable teammate who led quietly by example, always bringing high energy to practices and games. After stepping away from playing, she stayed involved in basketball through coaching, mentoring young athletes, and giving back to communities in Georgia and Michigan.
The news of her death in the Atlanta car accident has stunned the WNBA family, former teammates, University of Georgia alumni, and fans everywhere. Many remember her not just as a dominant inside force but as a kind and gracious representative of women’s basketball.