WNBL star’s heartbreaking call

The 28-year-old introduced on Monday that she had been recognized with stage 4 breast most cancers and had been suggested by specialists to finish her enjoying profession.

It comes after the previous US school basketball star with Syracuse University overcame an preliminary breast most cancers prognosis in 2019 to return to play the next 12 months.

Mangakahia joined the Sydney Flames in 2022 on a two-year deal and was the aspect’s third highest scorer final season, averaging 13 factors throughout 20 appearances.

In a press release on her social media accounts, she mentioned she wished to pursue a training profession within the sport.

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

“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 mentioned she would encompass herself with “those who love and support me”.

Flames chief govt Chris Pongrass mentioned the membership was devastated by the news and would proceed to help Mangakahia.

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

“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.”