AUSTIN, Texas (AP) – Tiffany Jackson, a former University of Texas standout who was the No. 5 pick in the 2007 WNBA draft and played nine years in the league, has died of cancer, the school She was 37 years old.
Jackson, who was first diagnosed with breast cancer in 2015, died on Monday. She was hired as the head coach at Wiley College in April.
Jackson was a three-time All-Big 12 selection and was voted Freshman of the Year by the U.S. Basketball Writers Association in 2004. She finished her career at Texas among the five first in points, rebounds and steals. She is the only Longhorns player to reach 1,000 points, 1,000 rebounds, 300 steals and 150 blocks in a career.
“Tiffany had a great career and was an impact player,” former Texas coach Jody Conradt said. “She was known for her all-around game and the fact that she was very mobile and could play multiple positions. She was loved by her teammates and we share the sadness of her passing.”
Jackson was drafted by the New York Liberty of the WNBA. He also played for the Tulsa Shock and the Los Angeles Sparks. His best professional season came in 2011 with Tulsa, when he averaged 12.4 points and 8.4 rebounds.
After his cancer diagnosis, Jackson managed to get back on the court to play one final season with Los Angeles in 2017 before retiring at the age of 32. She was an assistant coach at Texas for two seasons.
“We are deeply saddened to hear the news of the passing of Tiffany Jackson, one of the greatest players in Texas women’s basketball history,” Texas coach Vic Schaefer said. “I know she was very excited to be the head coach at Wiley College for the upcoming season. She will be greatly missed by many. Our deepest condolences to her family.”
