Honouring Tiana, one step at a time

The incredible legacy of Tiana Mangakahia lives on each year with the Sydney Flames and Kings' annual 'Pink Hoops' event, which supports the McGrath Foundation.

This event, which first started during the 2022-23 season, has raised more than $100,000 to fund and place specialised cancer care nurses across Australia.

Now the community will have another opportunity to celebrate and remember the life of the former Townsville Fire and Flames guard.

Mangakahia's family will be hosting a Tough4T Pink Walk on September 12 in her hometown of Redlands, to celebrate her memory 12 months since her passing. The event will raise money to help women under 40 diagnosed with breast cancer.

"We started the Tough4T Pink walk because we wanted to keep Tiana's spirit alive in a way that meant something," Tiana Mangakahia's mother, Cynthia, said to basketball.com.au.

"Tiana was a basketball player, a daughter, a sister, a friend, a coach and someone who cared about other people. After everything Tiana went through with breast cancer, we saw firsthand how difficult it can be for young women and their families.

"When you're going through cancer treatment, there are many things to worry about, and the financial pressure can be overwhelming on top of everything else. So, Tough4T was created in Tiana's honour.

"The walk gives people a chance to come together, remember T, celebrate her life and raise money to support young women under 40 who are going through breast cancer. Every step of the walk is about T and about helping other young women keep moving forward."

Mangakahia's battle with cancer dates back to her time at Syracuse University, where she bravely returned to the court for her senior season in 2020-21.

Since then, Mangakahia participated in a WNBA training camp with Phoenix before playing professionally in Russia, France and Australia.

Participating in the Tough4T Pink Walk is $20 per person and $50 for a family.

To register or for more information, visit tough4t.com

Read the full story here >> Tiana's mum: 'Strength isn't about never being afraid'