Cancer diagnosis forces WNBL basketballer Tiana Mangakahia to retire

An Australian WNBL star has been forced to retire from basketball early after receiving a devastating diagnosis.

Sydney Flames guard Tiana Mangakahia has been forced to retire prematurely from basketball as she faces another battle with breast cancer.

The 28-year-old announced on Monday that she had been diagnosed with stage 4 breast cancer and had been advised by specialists to end her playing career.

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It comes after the former US college basketball star with Syracuse University overcame an initial breast cancer diagnosis in 2019 to return to play the following year.

Mangakahia joined the Sydney Flames in 2022 on a two-year deal and was the side’s third highest scorer last season, averaging 13 points across 20 appearances.

In a statement on her social media accounts, she said she wanted to pursue a coaching career in the sport.

“I never thought I’d be writing this until I was ready to have children with my future husband,” Mangakahia said.

Sydney Flames star Tiana Mangakahia has been forced to retire after being diagnosed with stage 4 breast cancer. Picture: Jenny Evans / Getty Images

“However, here we go … basketball has been a part of my life for the past 23 years.

“The experiences I have endured and the amount of joy this amazing sport has brought me are too overwhelming to explain.

“Without going into too much detail I have recently been diagnosed with stage 4 breast cancer which has spread into other areas of my body.

“Sadly, I have been informed by specialists it’s time for me to retire and think about life after being a professional athlete.”

Mangakahia thanked her teammates and coaches and said she would surround herself with “those who love and support me”.

Flames chief executive Chris Pongrass said the club was devastated by the news and would continue to support Mangakahia.

“It is hard to express how important Tiana has been for this organisation,” Pongrass said.

“This news is truly devastating, and we share our thoughts, prayers and love with Tiana and her family.

“The Flames will continue to support Tiana throughout the next stage in her career; she will always be part of the Flames family and we are excited to help her continue to grow and develop in basketball.”