7 October, 2025
remembering-tiana-mangakahia-the-basketball-star-who-fought-beyond-the-court

Tiana Mangakahia, a name synonymous with resilience and talent in Australian basketball, passed away on Thursday night at the age of 30, surrounded by family and friends. Her journey was marked not by a lack of skill or determination, but by a battle with cancer that ultimately claimed her life. Mangakahia’s story is one of triumph over adversity, and her legacy will continue to inspire many.

A proud Queenslander, Mangakahia was first diagnosed with breast cancer in 2019 while attending college in the United States. She underwent chemotherapy, a double mastectomy, and reconstructive treatment, yet her spirit remained unbroken. Her comeback to the court with Syracuse was nothing short of inspiring, reigniting her dreams and setting her career in motion.

The Rise of a Basketball Prodigy

In 2021, Mangakahia reached a significant milestone, winning a bronze medal with the Opals at the FIBA Asia Cup. Her talent earned her a spot at the WNBA training camp with the Phoenix Mercury, where she played alongside her idol, Diana Taurasi. The admiration was mutual, with Taurasi and her wife, fellow Australian Penny Taylor, embracing Mangakahia warmly.

Returning to Australia, she joined the Sydney Flames in the WNBL, continuing to showcase her prowess on home soil. However, the relentless disease returned in 2023, forcing her into retirement. Despite this setback, Mangakahia transitioned to coaching, contributing to the Sydney Flames and maintaining her connection to the sport she loved.

A Legacy Beyond the Court

This year, Mangakahia returned to play with the Southern District Spartans in NBL1 North, and had plans to join the Tokomanawa Queens in New Zealand. Sadly, her health deteriorated rapidly, cutting short her promising journey. Her basketball IQ, three-point shooting ability, and natural feel for the game made her a joy to watch, and her performances were often described as electrifying.

One of her most memorable moments came in February 2023 during a tribute game for Lauren Jackson. Despite the odds, Mangakahia delivered a stellar performance, scoring a WNBL-career-high 26 points and securing a victory for her team. Her ability to rise to the occasion was a testament to her character and skill.

Impact and Inspiration

While her potential was never fully realized due to her illness, Mangakahia experienced a taste of what she was destined for: the WNBL, representing Australia, and the WNBA. She was on the brink of joining the Opals squad for a major tournament before cancer struck again.

Known affectionately as ‘T,’ Mangakahia played with passion, enthusiasm, and a contagious smile. Her openness about her cancer journey endeared her to the basketball community, who embraced her with open arms. Her flair for fashion saw her featured on t-shirts supporting breast cancer awareness, and she recently co-designed an outfit for the Queens, further cementing her influence.

“Her illness meant her potential was never reached but she had a small taste of all that she was destined, and good enough, for: WNBL, representing her country, and the WNBA.”

Continuing Her Legacy

The Hoops Capital turned pink in her honor, with fundraising efforts in conjunction with the McGrath Foundation. Mangakahia’s tradition of presenting the Player of the Game award will continue, preserving her legacy in the sport.

At Sydney, the support for Mangakahia was unwavering, providing her with a sense of purpose and connection to the game. Her impact extended beyond the court, raising awareness and funds for cancer research, rallying the Brisbane basketball community around her family.

Many athletes never reach their full potential, and Mangakahia’s story is often described as a sporting tragedy. Yet, she lived her life with joy and passion, spending her final months on the court and traveling with friends. Her passing is a profound loss, but her spirit and contributions to basketball will not be forgotten.

Taken too soon, Tiana Mangakahia leaves behind a legacy of courage and inspiration. Vale, Tiana Mangakahia.