Former Baylor Basketball Star Melissa Jones Passes Away at 36

Former Baylor University women’s basketball player and beloved figure Melissa Jones has passed away at the age of 36, as confirmed by her family.

Jones passed away in her residence in Commerce City, Colorado, on Friday, April 3, her mother informed Texas news outlet KWTX. The cause of her death has yet to be disclosed.

“The Baylor Family grieves the loss of 2011 alum Melissa Jones,” the women’s basketball program expressed via Instagram on Wednesday, April 8. “Her contributions to our program will always be remembered. Please keep the Jones family and the Baylor women’s basketball community in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.”

Jones was a key player for Baylor from 2008 to 2011, contributing to the Bears’ journey to the Final Four in 2010 and securing a Big 12 championship the following year. By the end of her college tenure, Baylor honored her by retiring her No. 5 jersey.

“Melissa Jones made a significant impact at Baylor University beyond just women’s basketball. She was cherished by the entire Waco community. Everything she did was with full dedication,” former Baylor coach Kim Mulkey told KWTX. “She played the game with the passion every player should aim for—always energetic, diligent, and a natural leader. Her teammates admired her for her unmatched effort, compassion, knowledge, and resilience. She was the ‘glue’ that held the team together through thick and thin.”

This affection was mutual, as Melissa’s mother, Kathy Jones, shared with the news outlet.

“She adored Coach Mulkey. Melissa had a remarkable bond with her,” she expressed. “Kim held a special place in her heart for Melissa, and vice versa.”

Kathy reflected on Melissa’s time at Baylor as “the highlight of her life.”

“She cherished so many memories and developed beautiful friendships during her time there, staying connected with many over the years. It’s truly a wonderful thing,” she noted.

Kathy emphasized, “She was my most treasured gift from God, alongside her three brothers.”

Former Baylor athletes have also started to pay their respects to Melissa. Atlanta Dream star Brittney Griner, one of her past teammates, shared Baylor’s Instagram tribute to her Story.

Stacy Williams, a former football player while Melissa was a student, commented on the Baylor post, saying, “An absolute competitor and an even better person. Thank you for being so incredible, Melissa.”

“Melissa lived a life filled with accomplishments—too numerous to mention—but clearly reflected in the countless lives she impacted,” her obituary states. “Known for her warmth and vibrant spirit, Melissa was a shining light to all who had the honor of knowing her.”