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Former Baylor women’s basketball star Melissa Jones, who was just one of seven players to have their jerseys retired by the program, has died, the team confirmed in a statement. She was 36 years old.
In a social media post shared Thursday, the Baylor women’s basketball team confirmed Jones’ death.
Baylor Bears’ Melissa Jones clashes with Tennessee Volunteers guard Angie Bjorklund in the first half at the Ferrell Center in Waco, Texas December 14, 2010. Baylor defeated Tennessee 65-54. (Matthew Emmons/USA TODAY Sports)
“The Baylor family mourns the loss of 2011 alumna Melissa Jones,” the Instagram post read. “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.”
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Jones’ mother told KWTX that she died at her home in Commerce City, Colorado, on April 3. The cause of death was not immediately known.
Melissa Jones of the Baylor Bears throws out the honorary first pitch before the baseball game between the Texas Rangers and the New York Mets at Rangers Ballpark in Arlington, Texas on June 24, 2011. (Jim Cowsert/USA TODAY Sports)
Jones, a Colorado native, played for Baylor from 2007 to 2011, during which she helped the team reach the Final Four in 2010 and win the Big 12 championship the following season. She was a fan favorite and became the fifth player in program history to have her jersey retired.
LSU women’s basketball coach Kim Mulkey, who coached Jones during his time at Baylor, released a statement on X, calling Jones more than just a former player.
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Melissa Jones of the Baylor Bears is consoled by head coach Kim Mulkey after committing a foul in the second half against the Connecticut Huskies during the women’s semifinal four at the Alamodome in San Antonio, Texas, April 4, 2010. Connecticut defeated Baylor 70-50. (Jeff Gross/Getty Images)
“My heart is broken by 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 in basketball, and she was loved by the entire community. I am grateful to have had the chance to coach and know her. Rest in peace MJ.”
WNBA veteran and former Baylor star Brittney Griner shared the team’s post to her Instagram Stories with a caption that read, “You will miss MJ!”
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Baylor Bears guard Melissa Jones warms up before a game against the Texas Longhorns at the Frank Erwin Center in Austin, Texas, January 12, 2011. (Brendan Maloney/USA TODAY Sports)
The two played together at Baylor from 2009-2011.
