Former Baylor Women's Basketball Star Dies at 36

Melissa Jones, a standout guard for the Bears, passed away at her home in Colorado.

Apr. 10, 2026 at 2:15pm

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An abstract, expressionist painting in neon colors, featuring rapid brushstrokes and dissolving figures that convey the raw emotion and passion of a women's basketball game.The vibrant, expressive painting captures the spirit and energy of Melissa Jones' legendary basketball career at Baylor University.Commerce City Today

Melissa Jones, a former star guard for the Baylor University women's basketball team, has died at the age of 36. Her mother, Kathy Jones, confirmed the news to a local Texas news station, but did not disclose the cause of death. Jones played for Baylor from 2007 to 2011 and helped lead the team to a national championship in 2010.

Why it matters

Jones was a beloved figure during her time at Baylor, where she was known for her tenacious defense and leadership on the court. Her passing at a young age is a tragic loss for the Baylor community and the world of women's basketball.

The details

Melissa Jones died on Friday at her home in Commerce City, Colorado. Her mother, Kathy Jones, spoke to KWTX, a news station in Texas, to confirm the news of her daughter's passing. The cause of death was not disclosed.

  • Melissa Jones played for Baylor University from 2007 to 2011.
  • Jones helped lead Baylor to a national championship in 2010.
  • Jones passed away on Friday, April 10, 2026.

The players

Melissa Jones

A former star guard for the Baylor University women's basketball team, who played from 2007 to 2011 and helped lead the team to a national championship in 2010.

Kathy Jones

The mother of Melissa Jones, who confirmed the news of her daughter's passing to a local Texas news station.

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What they’re saying

“It was the time of her life. She has so many fond memories and made so many beautiful friends there, and she'd kept up with so many over the years. It's a beautiful thing.”

— Kathy Jones, Mother of Melissa Jones

The takeaway

The passing of Melissa Jones, a beloved former Baylor basketball star, is a tragic loss for the university and the wider women's basketball community. Her legacy as a tenacious and inspiring player will continue to be remembered by those whose lives she touched.