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Uljana Semjonova

Inducted:
1993

Uljana Semjonova, NBA Hall of Fame

Player Stats

213 cm (7 ft 0 in)
127 kg (280 lb)

Born 
9 March 1952
Zarasai, Lithuanian SSR, Soviet Union

Died
8 January 2026
Riga, Latvia

Position
Center

College
NA

Uljana Semjonova stands as one of the most dominant and successful figures in the history of women’s basketball. Standing seven feet tall, she was a literal and figurative giant on the international stage, leading the Soviet Union national team to an incredible 18-year undefeated streak in official competition. During this nearly two-decade span of brilliance, she captured two Olympic gold medals and three World Championship titles.

Semjonova was equally unstoppable at the club level with TTT Riga, where she secured 15 Soviet national championships and 11 European Cup titles. Known for her immense size, rebounding prowess, and scoring efficiency, she garnered a staggering 45 total medals throughout her career. In 1993, she made history as the first non-U.S. woman to be inducted into the Basketball Hall of Fame in 1993.

Semjonova's Awards and Records

    • 2× Olympic Gold Medalist (1976, 1980)
    • 3× World Champion (1971, 1975, 1983)
    • 10× European Champion (1968–1985)
    • 11× European Cup for Women’s Champion Clubs
    • 15× Soviet National Champion
    • 12× Voted Latvia's Most Popular Athlete
    • One of the most dominant international centers ever

    Teams

    TTT Riga (1968–1987)

    National Team
    Soviet Union

    NBA Stats

    Career Points:
    15,000+
    Career High (Single Game):
    54 points
    International Record:
    18 years undefeated (1968–1986)
    Total Career Medals:
    45
    Olympic Gold medals:
    2 (1976,1980)


    Sports Fan Products

    NBA Hall of Fame

    The NBA Hall of Fame, officially known as the Basketball Hall of Fame, is a prestigious institution that honors the greatest figures in the sport of basketball. Each year, the Induction ceremony celebrates legendary players who have made significant impacts on the game. The Hall of Fame class features basketball legends whose remarkable career achievements and iconic moments have defined the sport.

    Inductees are recognized for their substantial player contributions, earning various awards and honors throughout their careers. The Hall also pays tribute to retired jerseys and acknowledges the profound impact on the game by highlighting the historic contributions of its members. With a focus on the legacy in basketball, the NBA Hall of Fame continues to celebrate excellence and inspire future generations of players through memorable speeches and recognition in sports.

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