The sports community is grieving the loss of former Syracuse basketball standout Tiana Mangakahia, who passed away on Thursday.
The Australian athlete died at the age of 30, surrounded by her family, after her second battle with cancer.
Her family shared the news on social media, saying, “It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved Tiana Mangakahia. She left us on September 11, 2025, embraced by family, friends, and love.”
“Tiana was a beacon of light, touching everyone she met with her kindness, courage, and warmth. She fought valiantly until the very end, displaying strength and grace beyond measure.”
“While we will forever feel the pain of her absence, her legacy and the love she shared will remain with us always. We will honor her memory in everything we do. We love you endlessly, Tiana, and will miss you forever. #Tough4T.”
The post was quickly filled with messages of love and support for Tiana from fans and fellow athletes around the world.
Australian basketball legend Lauren Jackson simply wrote, “Sending love,” accompanied by a heartbroken emoji.
Fellow Aussie player Maddie Garrick added, “I am lost for words. Sending so much love and support to everyone close to you, especially your family. Beautiful soul! Rest peacefully, T.”
Russian basketballer Yana Kosogortseva shared, “We will never forget you, T—from Russia with love.”
Other Australian players, including Mitch McCarron, Ally Wilson, and Josh Giddey, as well as WNBA star Paige Bueckers, also expressed their condolences with heart emojis.
Australian Olympic legend Jess Fox shared her condolences, writing, “Sending so much love. Rest in peace, Tiana.”
Basketball Australia also paid tribute to the late athlete.
“We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of Tiana Mangakahia,” the organization said in a statement.
“Tiana inspired everyone with her courage and resilience during her second battle with breast cancer. Her return to the court earlier this year in the NBL1 with the Southern Districts Spartans was a testament to her strength, determination, and unwavering love for the game.
“We were honored to have her join us for the Opals vs. Tall Ferns fixture on the Sunshine Coast in May, where her presence highlighted the profound impact she had on teammates, fans, and the wider basketball community.”
“We know this news will impact many across the basketball community. We encourage everyone to lean on their support networks and one another during this difficult time.
“Forever an Opal.”
The former Sydney Flames WNBL guard had previously beaten cancer four years earlier, shortly after being selected for the Opals’ Olympic training squad. Following her 2019 diagnosis, she underwent chemotherapy, a double mastectomy, and reconstructive surgery.
She made a remarkable return to the court in 2021 while a student-athlete at Syracuse University.
Tragically, in 2023, Tiana’s cancer progressed to stage four breast cancer, forcing her to retire from the sport she loved on medical grounds.
Despite this, she staged a remarkable comeback in June with NBL1 team Southern Districts Spartans. However, her return was brief, as she was again forced to step away from basketball on September 3 due to the cancer’s progression.
It was at this time that Mangakahia shared with her supporters that her health had taken a sharp decline.
“Over the past five days, my health has worsened,” she revealed on Thursday last week.
“The cancer has progressed and is now affecting me in ways that are difficult to describe. I’m experiencing significant physical challenges. At the moment, I’m taking things one day at a time, focusing on spending as much time as possible with my family and close friends. I kindly ask for privacy during this period. This isn’t an easy message to share, but I’m still ME!
“I’m holding on to hope and faith. I may not be able to show up as I once did, but I still deeply appreciate every message, prayer, and thought.
“Thank you for walking this journey with me. Your love and support give me more strength than you know.”
