At just 20 years old, Liana Užovičová has already made a significant impact in the world of Slovakian basketball. Playing for Slávia Banská Bystrica in the Extraliga, Liana's journey to becoming a standout player is a testament to her dedication, passion, and love for the sport. Photo: FIBA Europe

Getting into the basketball sport

Liana Užovičová’s love for sports began at a young age. Born and raised in Slovakia, she started playing basketball when she was just 8 years old. Interestingly, Liana’s initial foray into sports was through tennis. However, a serendipitous visit from a basketball coach to her class changed the course of her athletic career. “I was playing tennis when I was young. One day, a coach came to my class and asked who wanted to play basketball. I had never played before, but I decided to give it a try,” Liana recalls. “I tried to balance both tennis and basketball, but eventually, I chose basketball because of the camaraderie and the friendships I formed with my teammates.”

A big passion for basketball

For Liana, basketball is more than just a sport; it’s a way of life. Her passion for the game is palpable when she talks about what it means to her. “I love all sports, but basketball is special; the fans, the atmosphere, and the opportunity to inspire young girls are what drive me,” she says. Liana takes great pride in knowing that her journey can motivate others to pursue their dreams. “It’s amazing when little girls come up to me and say they want to play basketball because they saw me play. That’s my biggest passion.”

Liana’s admiration for French basketball player Marine Johannes also fuels her dedication. “She is my inspiration. I love watching her play. She’s an amazing shooter and passer, and her style of play is something I aspire to.”

Balancing education and basketball

Apart from her athletic commitments, Liana is also dedicated to her education. She is currently studying to become a basketball coach and physical education teacher. “Studying and playing basketball keeps me busy, but it’s something I enjoy. I want to stay connected to the sport even after my playing career.”

The journey through different clubs

Liana’s basketball journey has seen her play for several clubs, each contributing to her development as a player. She started at BK Lokomotíva Sereď in her hometown, a place she describes as her second home. “I spent countless hours in my hometown hall, more than at my own house. The coaches and the friends I made there are still very important to me. They helped shape who I am both as a player and as a person.”

After her time in Sereď, Liana moved to BK Žabiny Brno in the Czech Republic before joining Slávia Banská Bystrica. Reflecting on her first season in the Extraliga at Slávia Banská Bystrica, she acknowledges the challenges she faced. “Last year was tough, because it was my first year in the women’s league, and we had a strong team. I didn’t get many minutes, but it was a valuable learning experience.”

Representing the national youth team of Slovakia

Liana’s talents have also been recognized on the national stage. She has played for Slovakia’s under 18 and under 20 teams, gaining invaluable experience. “Playing in international tournaments is challenging but rewarding. Competing against top teams from other countries has taught me a lot.” Looking forward, Liana hopes to secure a spot on Slovakia’s women’s team. “I received an invitation to a wider group of the women’s team, but unfortunately I couldn’t come there because I had to be part of the under 20 team. We were missing a lot of players, so we couldn’t afford to miss me at training too.”

A bright future

As Liana enters her second season with Slávia Banská Bystrica, she is optimistic about the future. “This season, our team is focusing on developing young Slovak players. It’s a new format, and I’m excited about the opportunities it presents. I believe I can make a significant contribution.” Liana Užovičová’s story is one of perseverance, passion, and potential. Her journey from a young girl picking up a basketball for the first time to becoming a prominent player in the Extraliga is inspiring. With her talent, dedication, and love for the game, Liana is poised to continue making waves in Slovakian basketball and beyond.