Tiana Mangakahia makes stunning comeback

Two years since her stage four breast cancer diagnosis ended her professional playing career, Tiana Mangakahia will make her comeback through the NBL1 North with the Southern District Spartans. 

The former college star has had a long battle with breast cancer, overcoming her initial diagnosis back in 2019 and prematurely disrupting her WNBA-potential career pathway. 

Her last full season was with the WNBL's Sydney Flames, playing 20 points and averaging 13.1 points per game. She then played five games in France and one game with the Northside Wizards before her health became a priority once again. 

Between her on-court action, Mangakahia has been an assistant coach for the Flames and a key part of the Hoops Capitals' annual Pink Round initiative.

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The 2022 NBL1 North MVP has been a superstar of the competition when healthy, and Spartans head coach Bradd Kann cannot wait to add her to the National Finalist team. 

"Tiana has been a massive addition to our group, bringing not just on-court talent through her playmaking and scoring, but off the court with her IQ, leadership and experience," he said.

"We are excited to have her back in the Spartans uniform for 2025." 

Mangakahia expressed the same sentiment, explaining that she didn't believe playing basketball again was even an option. 

"Coming back to play whilst also battling breast cancer isn’t something I thought would be possible," she said.

"With my families support and support from the Spartans organisation, I’m excited to play and be a part of the team.” 

The NBL1 North season will start on May 1st. Follow NBL1 on social media for all the latest updates and news.