The sporting world is in mourning after former WNBA star Tiana Mangakahia died on Thursday.
The Australian native passed away surrounded by her family, after losing her second battle to cancer, aged 30.
Announcing her passing on social media, Mangakahia’s family wrote: “We are heartbroken to share the passing of our beautiful Tiana Mangakahia.
“She left us on 9/11/2025, 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.”
The post was quickly flooded with messages of support and love for Tiana from all corners of the globe.
Aussie basketball great Lauren Jackson wrote: “Sending love” with the heartbroken emoji.
Fellow Aussie basketballer Maddie Garrick also commented: “I am lost for words. Sending so much love and support to all those close to you and especially your family. Beautiful soul! Rest peacefully, T.”
Russian basketballer Yana Kosogortseva said: “We will never forget you, T from Russia with love.”
Aussie basketballers Mitch McCarron, Ally Wilson and Josh Giddey as well as WNBA superstar Paige Bueckers all commented love hearts.
While Australian Olympic legend Jess Fox commented: “Sending so much love. Rest in peace Tiana”.
Basketball Australia also posted a touching tribute to the late basketballer.
“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.”
The former Sydney Flames WNBL guard had already beaten cancer four years prior, when she was diagnosed shortly after being selected for the Opals’ Olympic training squad.
After a 2019 diagnosis, she underwent chemotherapy, a double mastectomy, and reconstructive surgery.
She returned to the court in 2021, when she was a student-athlete at Syracuse University.
Tragically, in 2023, Tiana’s cancer progressed into stage four breast cancer.
That diagnosis saw her retire from the sport she loved on medical grounds.
However, she managed to make a miraculous return for NBL1 team Southern Districts Spartans in June.
But tragically, her return to the court was short-lived, again being forced to step away from the sport on September 3 after the cancer took over.
It was at that time that Mangakahia revealed to her supporters that her health had rapidly deteriorated.
“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.”