Former Baylor women's basketball star Melissa Jones dead at 36

Baylor star Melissa Jones dies at 36

Former Baylor women's basketball standout Melissa Jones, one of seven players with retired jerseys in program history, has died at age 36, the team confirmed Thursday on social media. Jones, a Colorado native, died April 3 at her home in Commerce City, Colorado, her mother told KWTX. The cause of death was not disclosed.

The Baylor women's basketball program posted on Instagram: "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."

Jones played for Baylor from 2007 to 2011, helping the Bears reach the 2010 Final Four and claim the Big 12 championship the following season. She became the fifth player in program history to have her jersey retired and remained a fan favorite.

LSU coach Kim Mulkey, who led Jones at Baylor, posted 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 former Baylor teammate from 2009 to 2011, shared the team's post on her Instagram Stories with the caption: "You will be missed MJ!"