Alia Fischer

Fischer attended John Marshall High School in Rochester, Minnesota.{{cite web|url=https://www.proquest.com/docview/427241652|url-access=subscription|id={{ProQuest|427241652}}|title=Tommies guard shoots toward prominence: [METRO Edition]|work=Star Tribune|author=Reusse, Patrick|accessdate=March 9, 2024|date=March 14, 2000|page=04C|quote=}} As a senior for John Marshall, she was one of sixteen February 1, 1996, finalists (but not one of the five March 11 finalists) for Minnesota Miss Basketball.{{cite web|url=https://infoweb.newsbank.com/apps/news/document-view?p=NewsBank&t=&sort=YMD_date%3AA&fld-base-0=alltext&maxresults=20&val-base-0=%22Alia%20Fischer%22&docref=news/0EB5948DE70C2CEC|title=PERICH IN MISS BASKETBALL 'SWEET 16'|accessdate=March 9, 2024|date=February 1, 1996|work=Duluth News Tribune|page=05C}} That year she led the Rockets to the 1996 Minnesota State High School League (MSHSL) Section 1 Class AA championship game where they lost to the defending Class AA state champion Mayo High School 68–58 despite a team-high 15 points from Fischer.{{cite web|url=https://www.proquest.com/docview/426678795|url-access=subscription|id={{ProQuest|426678795}}|title=Goodhue tops Rochester Lourdes // Defending state champs sidelined in 1A title game: [METRO Edition]|work=Star Tribune|author=Roe, Jon|accessdate=March 9, 2024|date=March 9, 1996|page=09.C|quote=}} She was one of 12 Outstate Minnesota All-star selectees for the annual series against the Minneapolis–Saint Paul metropolitan area All-stars.{{cite web|url=https://www.proquest.com/docview/426675194|url-access=subscription|id={{ProQuest|426675194}}|title=It's a dream game: Osseo against Mayo: [METRO Edition]|work=Star Tribune|author=Augustoviz, Roman and Brian Wicker|accessdate=March 9, 2024|date=March 15, 1996|page=09.C|quote=}} Fischer selected Division III Washington University over Division I offers such as Davidson. Wash U had made 7 consecutive and 8 of the last 9 NCAA Division III women's basketball tournaments. Fischer had applied to Wash U on a last minute whim, when her mother, Cristine Fischer, suggested she add the school to her list of form letters that she was sending out.{{cite web|url=https://www.proquest.com/docview/403988335|url-access=subscription|id={{ProQuest|403988335}}|title=ON A WHIM, CENTER FISCHER FINDS UNPRECEDENTED SUCCESS AT WU SHE ENTERS OPENER FRIDAY AS TWO-TIME NATIONAL PLAYER OF YEAR: [FIVE STAR LIFT Edition]|work=St. Louis Post-Dispatch|author=Durando, Stu|accessdate=March 10, 2024|date=November 18, 1999|page=D, 5:1|quote=}}

As a freshman, Fischer scored 13 consecutive points to help Wash U close to a 43–39 deficit with 6:30 remaining in the first round of the 1997 NCAA Division III women's basketball tournament against {{cbb link|1996|sex=women|team=Millikin Big Blue|school=Millikin University|title=Millikin University}}. Wash U lost 61–53 to finish at 19–7. It was Wash U's 9th NCAA appearance in 10 years.{{cite web|url=https://www.proquest.com/docview/403702161|url-access=subscription|id={{ProQuest|403702161}}|title=WASHINGTON U. REPEATS ITSELF, FALLS TO MILLIKIN: FIVE STAR LIFT Edition|work=St. Louis Post-Dispatch|author=|accessdate=March 9, 2024|date=March 6, 1997|page=D, 3:1|quote=}} Fischer was an honorable mention All-UAA selection.{{cite web|url=https://www.proquest.com/docview/403698724|url-access=subscription|id={{ProQuest|403698724}}|title=SPORTS SHORTS: THREE STAR Edition|work=St. Louis Post-Dispatch|author=|accessdate=March 9, 2024|date=March 5, 1997|page=02.D|quote=}}

Fischer posted a career-high 35 points in the Washington University Invitational in an 89–76 championship victory over {{cbb link|1997|sex=women|team=Lake Forest Foresters|school=Lake Forest College|title=Lake Forest}}.{{cite web|url=https://www.proquest.com/docview/403737388|url-access=subscription|id={{ProQuest|403737388}}|title=MARYVILLE SURPRISES WASHINGTON U.: [FIVE STAR LIFT Edition]|work=St. Louis Post-Dispatch|author=|accessdate=March 9, 2024|date=November 30, 1997|page=F.6|quote=}} In January 23 and 25, 1998, games Fischer set the NCAA Division III record with 18 consecutive field goals made.{{cite web|url=https://www.ncaapublications.com/productdownloads/BKW08.pdf|title=Official 2008 NCAA Women's Basketball Records Book|accessdate=March 9, 2024|date=2008|publisher=National Collegiate Athletic Association}}{{cite web|url=https://www.ncaapublications.com/productdownloads/BKW10.pdf|title=Official 2010 NCAA Women's Basketball Records Book|accessdate=March 10, 2024|date=2010|publisher=National Collegiate Athletic Association}} On February 20, 1998, Wash U established a UAA record by defeating {{cbb link|1997|sex=women|team=Brandeis Judges|school=Brandeis University|title=Brandeis University}} by a 64-point margin of victory, 97–33, as Fischer scored a team-high 20 points.{{cite web|url=https://www.proquest.com/docview/403783828|url-access=subscription|id={{ProQuest|403783828}}|title=WASHINGTON U. WOMEN SET MARK FOR MARGIN OF VICTORY: [FIVE STAR LIFT Edition]|work=St. Louis Post-Dispatch|author=|accessdate=March 9, 2024|date=February 21, 1998|page=11|quote=}} In the February 22 UAA conference championship clinching game for seventh ranked Wash U against defending champion eleventh ranked {{cbb link|1997|sex=women|team=NYU Violets|school=New York University|title=NYU}}, Fischer posted 30 points and 14 rebounds in an 88–70 victory.{{cite web|url=https://www.proquest.com/docview/403781508|url-access=subscription|id={{ProQuest|403781508}}|title=BEARS TOP NYU 88-70 FOR TITLE: [FIVE STAR LIFT Edition]|work=St. Louis Post-Dispatch|author=Lyons, Joe|accessdate=March 9, 2024|date=February 23, 1998|page=C3|quote=}} Fischer was named UAA Player of the Year.{{cite web|url=https://www.proquest.com/docview/403794577|url-access=subscription|id={{ProQuest|403794577}}|title=SPORTS SHORTS: [FIVE STAR LIFT Edition]|work=St. Louis Post-Dispatch|author=|accessdate=March 9, 2024|date=March 5, 1998|page=D2|quote=}}

At the 1998 NCAA Division III women's basketball tournament, Fischer was on the all-sectional team following a 18-point/15-rebound (career high) performance in an 82–36 victory over {{cbb link|1997|sex=women|team=Bridgewater Eagles|school=Bridgewater College|title=Bridgewater College}} and a 16-point effort in a 53–45 come-from-behind victory over {{cbb link|1997|sex=women|team=Wisconsin–Oshkosh Titans|school=University of Wisconsin–Oshkosh|title=University of Wisconsin–Oshkosh}}.{{cite web|url=https://www.proquest.com/docview/403793885|url-access=subscription|id={{ProQuest|403793885}}|title=WASHINGTON U. BRUSHES OFF BRIDGEWATER: [FIVE STAR LIFT Edition]|work=St. Louis Post-Dispatch|author=|accessdate=March 9, 2024|date=March 14, 1998|page=12|quote=}}{{cite web|url=https://www.proquest.com/docview/403786462|url-access=subscription|id={{ProQuest|403786462}}|title=WASHINGTON U. RALLIES TO TAKE SECTIONAL TITLE: [FIVE STAR LIFT Edition]|work=St. Louis Post-Dispatch|author=|accessdate=March 9, 2024|date=March 15, 1998|page=F2|quote=}} Then, in the national semifinal, Fischer made 4 early blocks to set the tone on her way to a 20-point/11-rebound/6 block effort in a 66–51 victory over {{cbb link|1997|sex=women|team=Rowan Profs|school=Rowan University|title=Rowan University}}.{{cite web|url=https://www.proquest.com/docview/1842209325|url-access=subscription|id={{ProQuest|1842209325}}|title=ROWAN WOMEN ARE DEFEATED IN DIVISION III SEMIFINAL|work=St. Louis Post-Dispatch|author=Svrluga, Barry|accessdate=March 9, 2024|date=March 21, 1998|page=C.5|quote=}} Then in the championship game, she scored 28 points to secure the first NCAA Division III women's basketball tournament championship for Wash U against {{cbb link|1997|sex=women|team=Southern Maine Huskies|school=University of Southern Maine|title=Southern Maine}} by a 77–69 margin.{{cite web|url=https://www.proquest.com/docview/273537162|url-access=subscription|id={{ProQuest|273537162}}|title=Iowa wins fourth consecutive NCAA wrestling title: [FINAL AM Edition]|work=Fort Worth Star-Telegram|author=|accessdate=March 9, 2024|date=March 22, 1998|page=16|quote=}} The team finished with a 28–2 record and the schools 8th overall national championship (7 in volleyball). Fischer earned all-tournament team honors.{{cite web|url=https://www.proquest.com/docview/403782681|url-access=subscription|id={{ProQuest|403782681}}|title=WASHINGTON U. WOMEN WIN NCAA DIV. III CROWN: [FIVE STAR LIFT Edition]|work=St. Louis Post-Dispatch|author=|accessdate=March 9, 2024|date=March 22, 1998|page=F4|quote=}} She was named a Kodak/WBCA All-American.{{cite web|url=https://www.proquest.com/docview/446963414|url-access=subscription|id={{ProQuest|446963414}}|title=Division III All-America Team Announced by Kodak and WBCA|agency=Business Wire|author=|accessdate=March 9, 2024|date=March 20, 1998|page=1|quote=}} She was also named second team GTE Academic All-America.{{cite web|url=https://www.proquest.com/docview/403786796|url-access=subscription|id={{ProQuest|403786796}}|title=FISCHER IS FLOURISHING AT WU: [FIVE STAR LIFT Edition]|work=St. Louis Post-Dispatch|author=Boone, Kevin E.|accessdate=March 9, 2024|date=March 20, 1998|page=F12|quote=}}{{cite web|url=https://academicallamerica.com/documents/2016/10/13//1998%20WOMEN'S%20BASKETBALL.pdf?id=2067|title=1998 COSIDA ACADEMIC ALL-AMERICA WOMEN'S BASKETBALL TEAM|accessdate=March 12, 2024|date=October 13, 2016|publisher=Academicallamerica.com}} Fischer was the first underclassman winner in the 16-year history of the DIII WBCA Player of the Year.{{cite web|url=https://www.proquest.com/docview/403784363|url-access=subscription|id={{ProQuest|403784363}}|title=WASHINGTON U.'S FISCHER IS NAMED PLAYER OF THE YEAR: [FIVE STAR LIFT Edition]|work=St. Louis Post-Dispatch|author=Wishart, Nick|accessdate=March 9, 2024|date=March 24, 1998|page=C3|quote=}} Fischer's final statistics included 20.9 points per game, 9.6 rebounds per game and 65 total blocked shots.

Fischer was named DIII News Preseason Player of the Year. By leading the Bears to a 25–0 start and a 33-game winning streak, Fischer earned UAA Player of the Year recognition a second time, becoming the first Bear to earn the award two years in a row.{{cite web|url=https://www.proquest.com/docview/403910496|url-access=subscription|id={{ProQuest|403910496}}|title=SPORTS SHORTS: [FIVE STAR LIFT Edition]|work=St. Louis Post-Dispatch|author=|accessdate=March 9, 2024|date=March 6, 1999|page=25|quote=}} In the 1999 NCAA Division III women's basketball tournament, Fischer helped Wash U extend its streak to 34 straight by 21 points and five blocks (three in the first seven minutes) in a 75–38 victory over Wheaton College.{{cite web|url=https://www.proquest.com/docview/403916411|url-access=subscription|id={{ProQuest|403916411}}|title=WASHINGTON U. THRASHES WHEATON COLLEGE 75-38: [FIVE STAR LIFT Edition]|work=St. Louis Post-Dispatch|author=Wheatley, Tom|accessdate=March 9, 2024|date=March 7, 1999|page=F14|quote=}} In the third round game, the team's streak was in great peril when they surrendered a 49–31 lead to trail 60–59 late and eventually 62–61 inside the last minute against {{cbb link|1998|sex=women|team=Capital Comets|school=Capital University|title=Capital University}}. Fischer was called to make a traditional three-point play with 31 seconds remaining to help get the team to overtime. Wash U prevailed 77–70 as Fischer contributed a season-high 29 points, 11 rebounds, 5 blocks and 3 steals.{{cite web|url=https://www.proquest.com/docview/403916411|url-access=subscription|id={{ProQuest|403916411}}|title=OVERTIME VICTORY PUTS WU IN SECTIONAL FINAL: [FIVE STAR LIFT Edition]|work=St. Louis Post-Dispatch|author=|accessdate=March 9, 2024|date=March 13, 1999|page=12|quote=}} 16 points, 5 rebounds and 3 blocks by Fischer in the sectional championship game against {{cbb link|1998|sex=women|team=Wisconsin–Oshkosh Titans|school=University of Wisconsin–Oshkosh|title=University of Wisconsin–Oshkosh}} (for the 2nd year in a row in the national quarterfinals), helped secure a 56–55 victory after falling behind 18–3 in the first 12 minutes. Fischer earned all-sectional team honors.{{cite web|url=https://www.proquest.com/docview/403905601|url-access=subscription|id={{ProQuest|403905601}}|title=WASHINGTON U. MOVES TO NATIONAL SEMIFINALS: [FIVE STAR LIFT Edition]|work=St. Louis Post-Dispatch|author=|accessdate=March 9, 2024|date=March 14, 1999|page=F7|quote=}} In the national semi-finals, Fischer posted 31 points and had seven rebounds to defeat {{cbb link|1998|sex=women|team=Scranton Royals|school=University of Scranton|title=Scranton}} 74–65.{{cite web|url=https://www.proquest.com/docview/393816631|url-access=subscription|id={{ProQuest|393816631}}|title=FREED-HARDEMAN GAINS NAIA UPSET: [Final Edition]|work=The Commercial Appeal|author=|accessdate=March 9, 2024|date=March 20, 1999|page=D3|quote=}} With only a 60–58 lead over the {{cbb link|1998|sex=women|team=St. Benedict Blazers|school=College of St. Benedict|title=College of St. Benedict}} with a little over 4 minutes remaining, Wash U went on a 9–0 run, including 5 by Fischer, who contributed 19 points, 14 rebounds, and two steals, to achieve a 74–65 victory and a 30–0 record with 38 straight wins.{{cite web|url=https://www.proquest.com/docview/431152410|url-access=subscription|id={{ProQuest|431152410}}|title=North Dakota Takes the Title|work=The New York Times|author=|accessdate=March 9, 2024|date=March 21, 1999|page=10|quote=}}{{cite web|url=https://www.proquest.com/docview/403900739|url-access=subscription|id={{ProQuest|403900739}}|title=WASHINGTON U. WINS, KEEPS TITLE WU 74, ST. BENEDICT 65: [FIVE STAR LIFT Edition]|work=St. Louis Post-Dispatch|author=Wheatley, Tom|accessdate=March 9, 2024|date=March 21, 1999|page=F1|quote=}} She was an all-tournament team honoree.{{cite web|url=https://www.proquest.com/docview/912194045|url-access=subscription|id={{ProQuest|912194045}}|title=n t: [2]|work=St. Cloud Times|author=Rajkowski, Frank|accessdate=March 9, 2024|date=March 21, 1999|page=C.2|quote=}} No most outstanding player was selected.{{cite web|url=http://fs.ncaa.org/Docs/stats/w_basketball_champs_records/2016/d3/D3.pdf|title=DIVISION III WOMEN'S BASKETBALL CHAMPIONSHIPS RECORDS BOOK|accessdate=March 9, 2024|date=2016|publisher=NCAA.org}} Fischer was again named first team All-American and was named first team Academic All-America.{{cite web|url=https://www.proquest.com/docview/403907690|url-access=subscription|id={{ProQuest|403907690}}|title=TOP-RANKED WU DIGS IN AT ANOTHER FINAL FOUR: [FIVE STAR LIFT Edition]|work=St. Louis Post-Dispatch|author=Wheatley, Tom|accessdate=March 9, 2024|date=March 19, 1998|page=B9|quote=}}{{cite web|url=https://academicallamerica.com/documents/2016/10/13//1999%20WOMEN'S%20BASKETBALL.pdf?id=2068|title=1999 COSIDA ACADEMIC ALL-AMERICA WOMEN'S BASKETBALL TEAM|accessdate=March 12, 2024|date=October 13, 2016|publisher=Academicallamerica.com}} She also was recognized as Division III Player of the Year after averaging 17 points and 8.3 rebounds.{{cite web|url=https://www.proquest.com/docview/403899781|url-access=subscription|id={{ProQuest|403899781}}|title=WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY'S FISCHER REPEATS AS DIVISION III PLAYER OF THE YEAR: [FIVE STAR LIFT Edition]|work=St. Louis Post-Dispatch|author=|accessdate=March 9, 2024|date=March 23, 1998|page=C1|quote=}} She was the first repeat DIII Player of the Year.{{cite web|url=https://www.proquest.com/docview/403945087|url-access=subscription|id={{ProQuest|403945087}}|title=SPORTS SHORTS: [THREE STAR Edition]|work=St. Louis Post-Dispatch|author=|accessdate=March 9, 2024|date=October 15, 1999|page=D2|quote=}}

During the offseason before her senior season, Fischer broke a bone in her wrist during a pick-up game. Her treatment entailed a permanent pin and a six-week temporary orthopedic cast followed by a splint.{{cite web|url=https://www.proquest.com/docview/403964383|url-access=subscription|id={{ProQuest|403964383}}|title=WASHINGTON U. BASKETBALL STAR BREAKS WRIST: [FIVE STAR LIFT Edition]|work=St. Louis Post-Dispatch|author=Durando, Stu|accessdate=March 9, 2024|date=September 24, 1999|page=D6|quote=}} That offseason she interned for the 1999 St. Louis Rams.{{cite web|url=https://www.proquest.com/docview/403970409|url-access=subscription|id={{ProQuest|403970409}}|title=WILL THE CARDINALS HIKE TICKET PRICES? PERISH THE THOUGHT: [FIVE STAR LIFT Edition]|work=St. Louis Post-Dispatch|author=Miklasz, Bernie|accessdate=March 9, 2024|date=September 18, 1999|page=3|quote=}} Despite her medical situation, she was named DIII News Preseason Player of the Year for a second year in a row.

Fischer became Wash U's all-time career leader in both blocks and rebounds on November 27, 1999, against {{cbb link|1999|sex=women|team=Millikin Big Blue|school=Millikin University|title=Millikin University}}. Her 11 rebounds gave her 765 (surpassing Angie Kohnen's 757) and her 4 blocks gave her 172 (surpassing Michele Lewis' 170).{{cite web|url=https://www.proquest.com/docview/403966216|url-access=subscription|id={{ProQuest|403966216}}|title=MIZZOU, SLU, WASHINGTON U. WIN TOURNAMENT TITLES: [FIVE STAR LIFT Edition]|work=St. Louis Post-Dispatch|author=|accessdate=March 10, 2024|date=November 28, 1999|page=D5|quote=}} On February 18, the Bears won their 61st consecutive win, setting the record for women's college basketball surpassing the {{cbb link|1994|sex=women|team=Capital Comets|school=Capital University|title=1994–95 Capital University Comets}} team's record of 60. Fischer tallied 22 points, 11 rebounds and 3 blocks in the 61–38 victory over {{cbb link|1999|sex=women|team=Carnegie Mellon Tartans|school=Carnegie Mellon University|title=Carnegie Mellon}}.{{cite web|url=https://www.proquest.com/docview/404013140|url-access=subscription|id={{ProQuest|404013140}}|title=WU WINS RECORD 61ST IN ROW, LOOKS FORWARD TO OTHER GOALS: [FIVE STAR LIFT Edition]|work=St. Louis Post-Dispatch|author=Gregorian, Vahe|accessdate=March 10, 2024|date=February 19, 2000|page=OT.6|quote=}}{{cite web|url=https://www.proquest.com/docview/391378494|url-access=subscription|id={{ProQuest|391378494}}|title=PARTY MOOD FESTIVE CROWD AT CMU WATCHES WASHINGTON SET RECORD: [REGION Edition]|work=Pittsburgh Post-Gazette|author=Shontz, Lori|accessdate=March 10, 2024|date=February 19, 2000|page=D-4|quote=}} After a senior night celebration and a 63rd consecutive victory over {{cbb link|1999|sex=women|team=Chicago Maroons|school=University of Chicago|title=University of Chicago}} by a 70–33 margin, Fischer's senior class entered the 2000 NCAA Division III women's basketball tournament with a 102-9 overall record, 52-5 UAA conference record and a 10-1 NCAA tournament record.{{cite web|url=https://www.proquest.com/docview/403993925|url-access=subscription|id={{ProQuest|403993925}}|title=WASHINGTON U. PAYS TRIBUTE TO SENIORS, EXTENDS STREAK TO 63 BEARS ROUT CHICAGO AND AGAIN GO UNDEFEATED IN THE REGULAR SEASON: [FIVE STAR LIFT Edition]|work=St. Louis Post-Dispatch|author=Holland, Elizabethe|accessdate=March 10, 2024|date=February 27, 2000|page=D.5|quote=}} Fischer earned a third consecutive first-team All-UAA selection and UAA MVP recognition.

In the tournament, Wash U dispatched with Wisconsin-Oshkosh 67-46 behind 21 points from Fischer.{{cite web|url=https://www.proquest.com/docview/403963670|url-access=subscription|id={{ProQuest|403963670}}|title=WASHINGTON U. TAKES CARE OF BUSINESS VS. OSHKOSH BEARS CARRY OUT THEIR NEW THEME, ADVANCE TO FRIDAY'S SECTIONALS; WU 67, WIS.-OSHKOSH 46: [FIVE STAR LIFT Edition]|work=St. Louis Post-Dispatch|author=Nelson, Kathleen|accessdate=March 10, 2024|date=March 5, 2000|page=D.3|quote=}} Number one ranked Wash U defeated number two ranked Wisconsin-Eau Claire 81–63 with 25 points and 12 rebounds from Fischer.{{cite web|url=https://www.proquest.com/docview/404002399|url-access=subscription|id={{ProQuest|404002399}}|title=WASHINGTON U. BLASTS WISCONSIN-EAU CLAIRE WU 81, EAU CLAIRE 63: [FIVE STAR LIFT Edition]|work=St. Louis Post-Dispatch|author=Nelson, Kathleen|accessdate=March 10, 2024|date=March 11, 2000|page=OT.10|quote=}} Although Baldwin-Wallace College held an early second half lead, the Bears won 86–71 as Tasha Rodgers scored a career-high 33 points while Fischer attracted the defensive attention.{{cite web|url=https://www.proquest.com/docview/404009632|url-access=subscription|id={{ProQuest|404009632}}|title=WU ADVANCES TO DIVISION III SEMIFINALS BEARS HAVE TO RALLY TO BEAT BALDWIN-WALLACE IN SECTIONAL TITLE GAME; WU 86, BALDWIN-WALLACE 71: [FIVE STAR LIFT Edition]|work=St. Louis Post-Dispatch|author=Nelson, Kathleen|accessdate=March 10, 2024|date=March 12, 2000|page=D.6|quote=}} In the national semifinal, Wash U defeated Scranton 64–30 as Fischer posted 11 points. In the championship game, the Bears earned their 68th consecutive victory and achieved a 30–0 record, becoming only the second college basketball team to post consecutive undefeated seasons (joining John Wooden's 1971–72 & 1972–73 UCLA Bruins) by defeating Southern Maine 79–33 despite foul trouble 13 point from Fischer.{{cite web|url=https://www.proquest.com/docview/403982346|url-access=subscription|id={{ProQuest|403982346}}|title=WU CLAIMS ITS THIRD STRAIGHT TITLE BEARS COMPLETE 30-0 SEASON WITH TITLE-GAME BLOWOUT; WASHINGTON U. 79, S. MAINE 33: [FIVE STAR LIFT Edition]|work=St. Louis Post-Dispatch|author=Nelson, Kathleen|accessdate=March 10, 2024|date=March 19, 2000|page=D.1|quote=}} Fisher was selected as most outstanding player and a member of the all-tournament team. Wash U would extend its win streak to 81 games (shy of college basketball's record of 88 set by the 1971–1974 UCLA Bruins men's basketball teams) before losing on January 16, 2001, in a non-conference road game at {{cbb link|2000|sex=women|team=Fontbonne Griffins|school=Fontbonne College|title=Fontbonne College}}. Thus, its 50 game home-win streak remained intact but shy of the 88 home game streak set by Division III Rust College women from 1982 to 1989. The Bears' conference game streak was also in effect.{{cite web|url=https://www.proquest.com/docview/404093250|url-access=subscription|id={{ProQuest|404093250}}|title=BEARS REFLECT ON END OF THE STREAK: [FIVE STAR LIFT Edition]|work=St. Louis Post-Dispatch|author=Conner, Shannon|accessdate=March 10, 2024|date=January 18, 2001|page=D.1|quote=}}{{cite web|url=https://www.proquest.com/docview/404107898|url-access=subscription|id={{ProQuest|404107898}}|title=WASHINGTON U. STREAK ENDS WITH A DEFEAT AT FONTBONNE AFTER 81 CONSECUTIVE VICTORIES, BEARS LOSE TO TEAM DOWN THE STREET; FONTBONNE 79, WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY 68: [FIVE STAR LIFT Edition]|work=St. Louis Post-Dispatch|author=Conner, Shannon|accessdate=March 10, 2024|date=January 17, 2001|page=D.1|quote=}} The team would lose to conference foe NYU on the road on February 2, 2001.{{cite web|url=https://www.proquest.com/docview/431684785|url-access=subscription|id={{ProQuest|431684785}}|title=Violets Use Late Jumper To Shock Washington|work=The New York Times|author=Williams, Lena|accessdate=March 10, 2024|date=February 3, 2001|page=D.2|quote=}} The home win streak at the Washington University Field House would extend to 70 when they lost in the second round of the 2002 NCAA Division III women's basketball tournament 66–60 to Wisconsin-Stevens Point when leading scorer Robin Lahargoue was sidelined with a knee injury for the March 2, 2002, game.{{cite web|url=https://www.proquest.com/docview/402060798|url-access=subscription|id={{ProQuest|402060798}}|title=RARE BEARS LOSS DOESN'T DIMINISH SEASON: [FIVE STAR LIFT Edition]|work=St. Louis Post-Dispatch|author=Miklasz, Bernie|accessdate=March 10, 2024|date=March 3, 2002|page=D.1|quote=}} 81 consecutive wins stood as the NCAA women's basketball record until the 2010–11 Connecticut Huskies women's basketball team reached 90 in a row, relegating it to the NCAA Division III women's basketball record.{{cite web|url=https://www.espn.com/womens-college-basketball/news/story?id=4952208|title=Memorable wins on the record run to 90|accessdate=March 11, 2024|date=February 27, 2010|author=Jackson, Melanie|publisher=ESPN}}

A French and business dual major with a 3.84 G.P.A., Fischer was named the 2000 Women's Basketball Academic All-America Team Member of the Year.{{cite web|url=https://www.verizon.com/about/news/press-releases/alia-fischer-undefeated-washington-mo-university-named-gte-academic-allamericawomens-basketball-team|title=ALIA FISCHER OF UNDEFEATED WASHINGTON (Mo.) UNIVERSITY NAMED TO GTE ACADEMIC ALL-AMERICAWOMEN'S BASKETBALL TEAM|accessdate=March 9, 2024|date=March 14, 2000|publisher=Verizon}}{{cite web|url=https://academicallamerica.com/documents/2016/10/13//2000%20WOMEN'S%20BASKETBALL.pdf?id=2069|title=2000 COSIDA ACADEMIC ALL-AMERICA WOMEN'S BASKETBALL TEAM|accessdate=March 12, 2024|date=October 13, 2016|publisher=Academicallamerica.com}} She also won a third DIII national player of the year award after becoming the only player with multiple awards the year before.{{cite web|url=https://www.proquest.com/docview/403984909|url-access=subscription|id={{ProQuest|403984909}}|title=WU'S FISCHER, FAHEY RECEIVE DIVISION III HONORS: [FIVE STAR LIFT Edition]|work=St. Louis Post-Dispatch|author=|accessdate=March 10, 2024|date=March 20, 2000|page=C1|quote=}} In college, she served as a volunteer tutor.{{cite web|url=https://www.proquest.com/docview/403995828|url-access=subscription|id={{ProQuest|403995828}}|title=FOR THE LOVE OF THE GAME: [FIVE STAR LIFT Edition]|work=St. Louis Post-Dispatch|author=|accessdate=March 10, 2024|date=February 22, 2000|page=B.12|quote=}} Fischer received the Jostens Trophy along with Korey Coon of Illinois Wesleyan University as a co-winners of the Division III outstanding basketball student-athletes.{{cite web|url=https://www.proquest.com/docview/404012205|url-access=subscription|id={{ProQuest|404012205}}|title=SPORTS SHORTS: [FIVE STAR LIFT Edition]|work=St. Louis Post-Dispatch|author=|accessdate=March 10, 2024|date=March 7, 2000|page=C2|quote=}} Fischer was a finalist for 2000 NCAA Woman of the Year, losing out to Kristy Kowal.{{cite web|url=https://www.proquest.com/docview/404040310|url-access=subscription|id={{ProQuest|404040310}}|title=WIZARDS' MEOLA MAKES BIG SAVES AS KC WINS MLS CHAMPIONSHIP: [FIVE STAR LIFT Edition 1]|work=St. Louis Post-Dispatch|agency=Associated Press|accessdate=March 10, 2024|date=October 16, 2000|page=C2|quote=}} She was selected as the Honda DIII Woman Athlete of the Year.{{cite web|url=https://www.proquest.com/docview/427280073|url-access=subscription|id={{ProQuest|427280073}}|title=MINNESOTA SCENE Saints beat RedHawks on error in 10th inning: [METRO Edition]|work=Star Tribune|author=Augustoviz, Roman|accessdate=March 10, 2024|date=June 12, 2000|page=02C|quote=}} She was also recognized with a Today's Top VIII Award.{{cite web|url=https://www.proquest.com/docview/404082172|url-access=subscription|id={{ProQuest|404082172}}|title=RIVERWOMEN FINALLY BREAK OUT OF OVERTIME SLUMP: [FIVE STAR LIFT Edition]|work=St. Louis Post-Dispatch|author=Conner, Shannon|accessdate=March 10, 2024|date=December 22, 2000|page=D.8|quote=}}

At the final four weekend of the 2000 NCAA Division I women's basketball tournament, the Women's Basketball Coaches Association held an all-star game featuring 17 NCAA Division I stars, as well as the national players of the year from NCAA Division II, Division III and National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics.{{cite web|url=https://www.proquest.com/docview/404023648|url-access=subscription|id={{ProQuest|404023648}}|title=SOME MALE COACHES LAMENT DECLINE IN THEIR NUMBERS: [FIVE STAR LIFT Edition]|work=St. Louis Post-Dispatch|author=Holland, Elizabethe, Stu Durando And Shannon Conner|accessdate=March 10, 2024|date=April 1, 2000|page=7|quote=}} Thus, Fischer was invited to the all-star game.{{cite web|url=https://www.proquest.com/docview/408840578|url-access=subscription|id={{ProQuest|408840578}}|title=CAA, ESPN considering regional changes, more TV: [FINAL Edition]|work=USA Today|author=Allen, Karen and Patrick Dick|accessdate=March 10, 2024|date=March 31, 2000|page=17C|quote=}} Fischer scored 5 points in the game, which was held at the Palestra on April 1, 2000.{{cite web|url=https://www.proquest.com/docview/404035349|url-access=subscription|id={{ProQuest|404035349}}|title=NOTEBOOK: [FIVE STAR LIFT Edition]|work=St. Louis Post-Dispatch|author=Conner, Shannon and Stu Durando|accessdate=March 10, 2024|date=April 3, 2000|page=C6|quote=}} Nonetheless, she was not invited to the April 25 WNBA pre-draft camp in Chicago. This prompted thoughts of basketball retirement and professional thoughts of working for either AmeriCorps or Habitat for Humanity rather than pursuing international basketball opportunities.{{cite web|url=https://www.proquest.com/docview/404017928|url-access=subscription|id={{ProQuest|404017928}}|title=WNBA DOESN'T APPEAR TO BE IN FISCHER'S FUTURE: [FIVE STAR LIFT Edition]|work=St. Louis Post-Dispatch|author=Holland, Elizabethe|accessdate=March 10, 2024|date=April 14, 2000|page=B.3|quote=}}

In 2006, the NCAA decided to celebrate the 25th anniversary of its first Division II and Division III women's basketball championships by selecting a five-player, one-coach anniversary team in each division.{{cite web|url=https://www.proquest.com/docview/427768765|url-access=subscription|id={{ProQuest|427768765}}|title=SMALL COLLEGE NOTES ; NCAA to pick 25-year teams to mark hoops anniversary: [METRO Edition]|work=Star Tribune|accessdate=March 5, 2024|date=January 5, 2006|page=10C|author=|agency=}} Fischer was named to the NCAA Division III 25th Anniversary women's basketball team along with her coach Nancy Fahey and fellow Wash U teammate Tasha Rodgers. On January 26, 2007, she was inducted into the Washington University Sports Hall of Fame.{{cite web|url=https://www.proquest.com/docview/403031810|url-access=subscription|id={{ProQuest|403031810}}|title=Steamers are put on inactive status by MISL: [Third Edition]|work=St. Louis Post-Dispatch|accessdate=March 10, 2024|date=September 23, 2006|page=B.15|author=|agency=}} By 2010, she was known as Alia Fischer Keys.{{cite web|url=https://www.proquest.com/docview/458347797|url-access=subscription|id={{ProQuest|458347797}}|title=Note to UConn: Wash U women hold the longest winning streak|work=St. Louis Post-Dispatch|accessdate=March 5, 2024|date=April 2, 2010|page=|author=Nelson, Kathleen|agency=}}

{{reflist|35em}}

{{Honda Sports Award}}

{{DEFAULTSORT:Fischer, Alia}}

Category:1970s births

Category:Living people

Category:20th-century American sportswomen

Category:American women's basketball players

Category:Basketball players from Minnesota

Category:Centers (basketball)

Category:Washington University in St. Louis alumni

Category:People from Olmsted County, Minnesota

Category:Date of birth missing (living people)

Category:Place of birth missing (living people)