By Michael Winnewisser
Athletics Communications Student Assistant

Sydnee Fipps is a two-time all-Big West Conference first-team selection for the UC Davis women's basketball team. You may have seen No. 14 scoring from everywhere on the court. She's certainly a focal point of opponent defenses. Last season, Fipps ranked third in the Big West in scoring (17.7 ppg.), became the 16th Aggie to reach 1,000 career points, and broke the school's single-game record for free throws in a game when she made 17 of 20 against Pacific. She's started every one of her career games for UC Davis, and her list of accomplishments on the court goes on and on. What is she like off the court?

The high-scoring forward from Mariposa, California, recently spoke with www.ucdavisaggies.com to show another side of Sydnee Fipps.

How did it feel being only the third junior in Aggie history to score 1,000 points?
I honestly was not aware until now that I was only the third junior to reach this milestone. It is definitely an honor considering all of the great players I have played with, and all of the great players that competed for this program during its history. Playing alongside my teammates, who are great in their own right, I feel that is why I was able to accomplish this milestone.

What would you say is the greatest athletics accomplishment?
After all these years of playing the sport, I think my greatest accomplishment is just the opportunity to play at the Division I level. When I was younger, I loved basketball and always dreamed of playing at the next level, but it seemed pretty far off. Accomplishing this dream and putting on my Aggie uniform for the first time was very surreal.

Who would you say first inspired your love for basketball?
My mom because she played basketball at Fresno State. I can remember playing basketball outside with my brothers from a very young age and it was always so much fun. My parents helping me get involved in basketball and the backyard games with my brothers definitely inspired my love for the game growing up. 

What motivated you to major in managerial economics? What do you hope to do with your interest in that field?
I really enjoyed math and tried a few different majors. However, I started taking math and economics classes and began to truly enjoy the major. I hope to one day be able to pursue a career in some kind of business. I would also enjoy a sports business job but, honestly, any kind of job in the business world would be great. 

What is your favorite memory of playing with the Aggies?
I have so many good memories of playing with the Aggies and continue to make new favorites each day. I would say one of my favorite memories is my freshman year, taking the court for my first collegiate game. We beat Washington on its home court. I just felt like our team played with so much Aggie Pride and it is something I will remember forever.

What is the best part about playing for the Aggies every season?
The best part of playing for the Aggies every season is the opportunity to create fun memories with your team. I love playing alongside great teammates and coaches who share the same love of the game that I do. I really enjoy playing for this school; the community is so encouraging and has so much Aggie Pride.

What goals have you and your team set for this season?
Our ultimate goal is to win a Big West championship but, most importantly, have a lot of fun. My team and I are just really looking forward to making the most of this year and have a blast doing it. We are pretty excited for what is ahead of us.

Fipps and her teammates return to action on Wednesday at San Jose State. Listen to the 7 p.m. game on KDVS (90.3 FM) or online at ucdavisaggies.com. The Aggies' next home game is set for Jan. 3 against Menlo College.