Tiana Mangakahia, a point guard for Syracuse womens basketball, revealed she was diagnosed with Stage 2 breast cancer Tuesday morning in a release through cuse.com. 

Mangakahia underwent various tests and a biopsy on Friday, June 14 before an official diagnosis came on Tuesday, June 18. 

“I know this will be tough, but I will get through it,” Mangakahia said in the release. “This is just the beginning for me and I will come out stronger. I have much more to accomplish and I hope to inspire others to overcome their own adversity just like I know I will.”

The rising senior is coming off a season where she lead Syracuse in points (16.9) and assists (8.4). Mangakahia could’ve entered her name into the WNBA Draft, but she announced a return to SU for her senior season on April 1. 

In the release, Mangakahia thanked her support system that included head coach Quentin Hillsman, Syracuse wide receiver Trishton Jackson and director of athletics John Wildhack, among others. 

“I am heartbroken,” Hillsman said on Twitter. “Tiana is a tough lady. She will have the complete support of every associated of everyone associated with our program as he goes through her treatment. Tiana is a grinder and I know she won’t back down from this challenge.”

Published on July 1, 2019 at 12:02 pm

Contact KJ: kjedelma@syr.edu | @KJEdelman