Australian basketball in mourning as former WNBL guard Tiana Mangakahia dies aged 30Harrison Reid7NEWS SportFri, 12 September 2025 1:57PM
The Australian basketball community is in mourning following the tragic passing of Tiana Mangakahia.
Mangakahia was surrounded by family on Thursday when she lost her second battle with cancer at just 30 years of age.
In a statement, Mangakahia’s family said: “We are heartbroken to share the passing of our beautiful Tiana Mangakahia.
“She left us on 11/09/2025, surrounded by family, friends and lots of love.
“Tiana was a shining light who touched the lives of everyone she met with her kindness, strength, and warmth. She fought right till the very end, showing courage and grace beyond words.
“Though our hearts ache without her, her legacy and the love she gave will stay with us forever. We will continue to honour her in everything we do.
“We love you endlessly, Tiana, and will miss you always. 🩷 #Tough4T.”
Mangakahia retired from professional basketball two years ago on medical advice when she was diagnosed with stage-four breast cancer.
The former Sydney Flames WNBL guard had already overcome an initial bout of cancer, which came four years prior to the 2023 diagnosis, shortly after being selected in the Opals’ Olympic training squad while playing for Syracuse University in New York State.
“We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Tiana Mangakahia,” Basketball Australia said in a statement.
“Tiana inspired us all with her courage and resilience as she faced a second battle with breast cancer. Her return to the court in the NBL1 earlier this year with the Southern Districts Spartans was a powerful reflection of her strength, determination, and enduring love for the game.
“We were fortunate to have her join us for the Opals vs Tall Ferns fixture on the Sunshine Coast in May, where her presence was a reminder of the impact she made on teammates, fans, and the wider basketball community.
“We know this news will affect many across our sport. We encourage everyone to lean on their support networks and each other during this difficult time.
“Forever an Opal.”
Just eight days ago, Mangakahia said her health had taken a turn for the worse.
“Over the last five days my health has taken a negative turn,” she said on Thursday last week.
“The cancer has progressed and it’s now affecting me in ways that are hard to put into words. I’m experiencing significant physical decline.
“As of now, I’m taking things day by day, focusing on spending as much time as possible with my family and close friends. I would like to ask for some privacy during this time.
“This isn’t an easy message to write or share but I’m still ME!
“Still holding on to hope and faith. I may not be able to show up in all the ways I used to, but I still deeply value every message, prayer and thought.
“Thank you for walking this path with me. Your love and strength carry me through more than you know.”
Following chemotherapy, a double mastectomy and reconstructive surgery, she made an emotional return to college basketball in late 2020 and, after being overlooked in the 2021 WNBA draft, returned to the WNBL with the Flames in 2022.
It was only 12 months later that she had to step away from the game again.
“While my basketball journey on court has come to a close, this won’t be the last time you see me involved with the sport,” she wrote on June 5, 2023.
“Even though my journey is uncertain, what I am certain about is my passion for life and bringing greater awareness throughout the community about this nasty disease.
“I am looking forward to pursuing a career in coaching and giving back to the sport that has given so much to me.
“Cancer does scare me, but not living my life to the fullest scares me even more.”
The WNBL released a statement of its own, celebrating Mangakahia’s contribution to the league.
“Tiana’s basketball journey was defined by resilience, determination, and an unwavering love for the game,” the statement reads.
“She made her WNBL debut in 2011 before enjoying successful seasons with the Townsville Fire and Sydney Flames and being selected for the Opals.
“Tiana continued to shine in the NBL1, winning North MVP in 2022, and making an inspiring return to the court this year with the Southern Districts Spartans, where she helped guide them to a grand final series.
“She also gave back to the sport she loved through assistant coaching roles with the Sydney Flames and NBL1 Sharks, inspiring the next generation of athletes.
“While her time in the game was tragically cut short, Tiana’s legacy will live on. She will be remembered for her leadership, strength, courage, and the joy she brought to all who knew her.
“The WNBL extends its deepest condolences to Tiana’s family, friends, teammates, and the entire basketball community.
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