Uljana Semjonova
Uljana Semjonova (Latvian: Uļjana Larionovna Semjonova; born March 9, 1952) is a former Soviet Latvian female basketball player. Standing at 2.13 meters (7 feet 0 inches), she was the leading women's basketball player in the world in the 1970s and 1980s.
Early Life[edit | edit source]
Semjonova was born in Zarasi, Latvian SSR, Soviet Union. From a young age, her remarkable height distinguished her from her peers. She began playing basketball at a young age and quickly made a name for herself in the sport.
Career[edit | edit source]
Semjonova's basketball career is highlighted by her dominance in the center position. She played for the TTT Riga team from 1968 to 1989, during which time the team won 15 Soviet Union National Championships and 15 European Champions Cups. Semjonova was known for her exceptional skills, including her ability to score, rebound, and block shots, making her an invaluable asset to her team.
On the international stage, Semjonova represented the Soviet Union national basketball team, winning two Olympic gold medals (1976, 1980), and numerous World Championships and European Championships. Her towering presence and skill set made her virtually unbeatable in the paint, contributing significantly to her team's successes.
Legacy[edit | edit source]
Semjonova's impact on women's basketball is immeasurable. She was inducted into the FIBA Hall of Fame in 2007 and the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 1993, recognizing her contributions to the sport and her exceptional career. Semjonova was the first non-American woman to receive this honor, highlighting her global influence on basketball.
Her size 21 (US) / 58 (EU) shoes were the largest ever worn by a female basketball player, adding to her legend. Despite her size, she was known for her gentle nature off the court and her sportsmanship.
Post-Retirement[edit | edit source]
After retiring from professional basketball, Semjonova has remained involved in the sport, contributing to the development of basketball in Latvia and mentoring young players. Her legacy continues to inspire aspiring basketball players, especially women, to achieve greatness in the sport.
See Also[edit | edit source]
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