WNBA Community Mourns the Loss of Two-Time Champion Kara Braxton Following Fatal Georgia Car Crash

Two-time WNBA champion Kara Braxton has died at age 43 following a car crash in Atlanta. Explore her legacy with the Detroit Shock and University of Georgia Bulldogs.

By: AXL Media

Published: Feb 24, 2026, 6:42 AM EST

Source: The information in this article was sourced from CNN

The Fatal Incident in Cobb County

The basketball world was struck by tragedy over the weekend following reports of a fatal car accident involving former WNBA star Kara Braxton. According to Cobb County police, the 43-year-old was driving a single vehicle on Interstate 285 northbound near the Cobb Parkway exit when her car struck a concrete median wall on the left shoulder. Braxton was transported to a local hospital, where she was later pronounced dead. The news was confirmed on Monday, February 23, 2026, by the University of Georgia athletic department and the WNBA league office, triggering a wave of tributes from former teammates, coaches, and fans.

A Distinguished Career on the Court

Braxton’s journey in professional basketball began as the No. 7 overall pick in the 2005 WNBA Draft by the Detroit Shock. Standing 6-foot-6, she quickly established herself as a formidable force in the paint, earning WNBA All-Rookie honors in her debut season. Her ten-season professional career saw her secure two WNBA championships with the Shock in 2006 and 2008. Beyond Detroit, Braxton contributed her talents to the Tulsa Shock, Phoenix Mercury, and New York Liberty before retiring from the league in 2014. Her career statistics reflect a reliable and passionate veteran who played nearly 300 regular-season games, averaging 7.6 points and 4.7 rebounds per contest.

Collegiate Standout and SEC Honors

Before her professional success, Braxton was a star for the University of Georgia Bulldogs from 2002 to 2004. She made an immediate impact on the collegiate scene, being named the SEC Freshman of the Year in 2002 and earning First-Team All-SEC honors. Her collegiate performance cemented her status as one of the top prospects of her era, known for her shot-blocking ability and versatile scoring. The University of Georgia released a statement mourning her passing, emphasizing her lasting impact on the program and her role in the Bulldogs' history.