Former Syracuse star Tiana Mangakahia dies at 30 after cancer battle

Field Level Media|published: Fri 12th September, 14:22 2025

Feb 28, 2021; Syracuse, New York, USA; Syracuse Orange guard Tiana Mangakahia (4) dribbles up the court against the NC State Wolfpack during the first half at the Carrier Dome. Mandatory Credit: Rich Barnes-Imagn Images

Former Syracuse basketball star Tiana Mangakahia died on Thursday at age 30 after a long battle with cancer.

She was surrounded by family and friends when she passed in her hometown of Brisbane, Australia, the school said in a news release on Friday.

"The ultimate fighter!" Syracuse head coach Felisha Legette-Jack said. "We talk about ‘We Fight On' with our women's basketball team. Tiana embraced it, she lived it and inspired others through her fight. We are fortunate to have had Tiana as one of our own. Her legacy will live forever at Syracuse. May she rest in peace."

Mangakahia, a guard, played for the Orange from 2017-21, earning multiple All-America and All-ACC honors.

She began her fight with breast cancer in November 2019, returning to the court one year later.

"Tiana defined courage, inspiration, and passion," added Syracuse athletic director John Wildhack. "An All-American on the basketball court she was an even better person off the court. She was kind, considerate, caring, and always uplifting even during the most challenging of times.

"We extend our thoughts and prayers to Tiana's family and friends. She will always be Forever Orange."

Mangakahia graduated as Syracuse's career leader in assists (736), assists per game (8.7) and free-throw percentage (.873). She helped the Orange reach the NCAA Tournament three times.

She went on to play professionally in Russia, France and her native Australia. She also helped Australia win the bronze medal at the FIBA Women's Asia Cup in 2021.

--Field Level Media

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