Tiana Mangakahia, Syracuse Basketball Star, Dies at 30

Family members announced on Friday that Tiana Mangakahia, renowned for her time on the Syracuse women’s basketball team, has passed away at the age of 30.

After her college career, she went on to play professionally in various countries, including Russia, France, and Australia.

The family expressed their heartbreak over the loss but also highlighted Mangakahia’s “courage and grace,” reminding everyone of her incredible spirit.

“As we share the news of the beautiful Tiana Mangakahia, we are overwhelmed with emotion,” they wrote on her social media. “She left us surrounded by loved ones, showing her strength and warmth to all. Tiana fought bravely until the end.”

Mangakahia was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2019 and underwent significant treatment, including chemotherapy and surgeries, which led her to pause her WNBA ambitions for a time. Ultimately, she decided to return to Syracuse for her final year of eligibility.

“The Syracuse athletics community mourns the loss of Tiana Mangakahia,” said John Wildehack, the athletics director. “She embodied courage and inspiration, not just on the basketball court but even more so off of it.”

During her international playing career, she faced another cancer diagnosis that forced her to step away from the game, after which she transitioned into coaching.

Basketball Australia also mourned her passing, stating, “Tiana inspired us all with her resilience during her second battle with breast cancer. Her return to the court earlier this year was a powerful testament to her strength and unwavering love for basketball.”