Baylor star Melissa Jones dies at 36
Former Baylor women's basketball standout Melissa Jones has died at age 36, the program confirmed in a social media post Thursday. Jones, one of seven players to have her jersey retired by Baylor, passed away April 3 at her home in Commerce City, Colorado, her mother told KWTX. The cause of death was not disclosed.
A Colorado native, Jones played for Baylor from 2007 to 2011. She helped the Bears reach the Final Four in 2010 and win the Big 12 championship the next season. The program's Instagram post stated: "The Baylor Family mourns the loss of 2011 alum Melissa Jones. Her impact on our women’s basketball program will not be forgotten. Please keep the Jones family and the Baylor women’s basketball program in your prayers during this time."
Former Baylor coach Kim Mulkey, who led Jones during her college career, shared a statement on X: "My heart is broken over the loss of Melissa Jones. She was more than just a player to me — she was family. She left her mark on Baylor, not just basketball, and she was loved by the entire community. I’m grateful I had the chance to coach her and know her. Rest in peace MJ."
WNBA player Brittney Griner, a teammate of Jones at Baylor from 2009 to 2011, reposted the team's announcement on her Instagram Stories with the caption: "You will be missed MJ!"
