## Uljana Semjonova: life and Career
Uljana Semjonova, a dominant figure in women’s basketball, died on January 8, 2024, at the age of 73. FIBA reported her passing, acknowledging her critically important contributions to the sport.
## Early Career and Soviet Dominance
Semjonova was a central player for the Soviet Union women’s national basketball team, achieving unparalleled success. She was a three-time World Champion (1967, 1970, 1974), a ten-time European Champion (1968-1976, 1978-1980), and a double Olympic gold medalist, winning at the 1976 Montreal olympics and the 1980 Moscow Olympics. Official Olympic Results confirm her gold medal win in montreal. Official Olympic Results confirm her gold medal win in Moscow.
## Riga and European Club Competition
Semjonova played for riga, a team that consistently competed against the Center Universitaire de Clermont (CUC) in the European Cup for Women’s Clubs (now EuroLeague Women) during the 1970s. The source material highlights the intense rivalry between Riga and CUC, wiht Riga winning in 1971, 1973, 1974, and 1977. EuroLeague Women History details past winners of the competition, confirming Riga’s dominance during this period. Semjonova’s height, reported between 2.11m and 2.17m, was a significant factor in her dominance as a pivot.## Later Career and Support from Former Rivals
Semjonova concluded her club career in france,playing for orchies. La Nouvelle République reports on her time with Orchies. Facing severe health issues, she received financial support from her former opponents at CUC, demonstrating a remarkable bond of respect and friendship that transcended competition. L’Équipe details the support provided by CUC.
