What happened to Kara Braxton? Tragic Georgia crash ends life of 43-year-old 2x WNBA champion in devastating highway accident

Karen Noronha | Indiatimes | Feb 24, 2026, 17:19 IST

The Women’s National Basketball Association confirmed the death of two-time champion Kara Braxton in an official statement shared on its X account on Sunday, February 22.

Image credit : X/@nyliberty | Kara Braxton died in a single-vehicle accident on Saturday evening.

A celebrated figure in women's basketball, Kara Braxton carved out a 10-year career defined by toughness, titles, and leadership. That legacy was abruptly cut short after a fatal highway crash in Georgia.

The former Women's National Basketball Association (WNBA) standout, known for her championship run with the Detroit Shock and later stints across the league, died Saturday evening in a single-vehicle accident.

X/@nyliberty | The former Detroit Shock star, who later played for the Tulsa Shock, Phoenix Mercury, and New York Liberty, died on Saturday.

Image credit : X/@nyliberty | The former Detroit Shock star, who later played for the Tulsa Shock, Phoenix Mercury, and New York Liberty, died on Saturday.

Kara Braxton car accident: What did the police reveal?

The crash occurred on Interstate 285 near Atlanta, Georgia. According to People, the Cobb County Police Department is investigating what authorities described as a "fatal collision" that happened at approximately 5:13 PM.

Police said Braxton was heading northbound when her vehicle struck a concrete median barrier. In a statement shared via People, the department said: "A blue 2023 Ford Mustang Mach E, operated by Kara Brown Braxton Jackson, was traveling north on I-285 approaching Cobb Parkway in the left lane. Brown Braxton Jackson failed to maintain her lane, and the Ford collided with the concrete median wall."

Image credit : WNBA star Kara Braxton poses with two championship trophies in 2008.

Officials further explained: "The Ford continued in a northerly direction against the concrete wall until coming to rest on the left shoulder of I-285 at Cobb Parkway."

Braxton, who was married to her husband, Jarvis Jackson, with whom she shared her second son, Jream Jackson, was taken to Wellstar Kennestone Hospital, where she was pronounced dead. The Selective Traffic Enforcement Program Unit of the Cobb County Police Department continues to examine the circumstances surrounding the crash.

WNBA reacts to Kara Braxton's death with emotional tribute

The WNBA confirmed the news on Sunday, February 22, in a statement posted on X. "It is with profound sadness that we mourn the passing of 2x WNBA Champion Kara Braxton."

The league added: "A 10-season veteran, Kara played with the Detroit Shock, Tulsa Shock, Phoenix Mercury, and New York Liberty. Our thoughts are with her family, friends, and former teammates at this time."

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. Our thoughts are with her family, friends, and former teammates at this time. pic.twitter.com/0I71xWCWfW

— WNBA (@WNBA) February 23, 2026

Alongside the statement, the WNBA shared an image of Braxton holding the championship trophy with her son - a moment from her career that resonated deeply with fans now mourning her loss.

Kara Braxton's basketball legacy: From Georgia standout to WNBA champion

Braxton's path to professional basketball began at Westview High School in Beaverton, Oregon. She later competed at the University of Georgia, representing the Lady Bulldogs before entering the 2005 WNBA Draft.

Her early years with the Detroit Shock proved pivotal, as she helped secure two league championships. Over the course of her career, she also suited up for the Tulsa Shock, Phoenix Mercury, and New York Liberty before stepping away from the league in 2014.

The Dallas Wings send our love to the family and friends of Kara Braxton, including her two sons.

Kara’s profound impact is woven throughout the history of the Detroit Shock and Tulsa Shock franchise, including winning two WNBA Championships. pic.twitter.com/IGZE4HJXBt

— Dallas Wings (@DallasWings) February 23, 2026

Jelani Thurman shares heartfelt message after mother's passing

Beyond the court, Braxton was a mother of two. She shared her eldest son, Ohio State tight end Jelani Thurman, with Cincinnati Bengals linebacker Odell Thurman.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Odell Thurman (@othurman51)

Following her passing, Jelani addressed the outpouring of support in a series of Instagram Stories. "Our family truly appreciates the incredible love, prayers, calls, messages, visits, and support we've received during this incredibly difficult time after the loss of my mom. Your kindness has meant more to us than words can express, and we are grateful to have such a strong circle of family and friends surrounding us."

He added: "As we continue navigating this painful moment, today will be the last day we will be receiving guests at the house until further notice. We kindly ask for privacy as my grandmother and the rest of our family take time to grieve personally and begin making arrangements for my mom's homegoing."

Image credit : Instagram/jelani_wrld | Jelani Thurman shares heartfelt message after mother's passing.

Thurman concluded: "Please continue to keep our family in your thoughts and prayers. We will share updates regarding services when the arrangements are finalized. Thank you again for your love, patience, and understanding during this time."

GENERAL

Karen Noronha