Aliyah Boston, the rookie sensation of the WNBA, had hoped to find her place within the league. Not only has she achieved that, but she has surpassed expectations. With her exceptional performance, Boston has become the front-runner for the prestigious Rookie of the Year honors, instilling newfound hope within the Indiana Fever franchise. The team, which endured a league-record-tying 20-game losing streak, broke the cycle in May and has already matched its victory count from the previous season, with a chance to achieve the highest single-season total since 2019. Perhaps, with some second-half magic, Indiana could secure a playoff spot for the first time since 2016, and Boston’s presence makes anything seem possible.
First-year coach Christy Sides expressed her astonishment at Boston’s abilities, stating, “I knew she was special, but she’s exceeded it. You just don’t know how you’ll respond until you enter this league. It’s a whole different level in terms of size, speed, quickness, and strength. She’s eager to learn, communicates with every coach, studies videos, and asks insightful questions.”
Boston’s quick adaptation to the league is one of the many reasons she has avoided the typical learning curve, establishing herself as a leading contender for the Rookie of the Year title. Standing at an impressive 6-foot-5, 220 pounds, Boston possesses the size, strength, and skills to challenge even the most seasoned veterans. In her All-Star Game debut, she grabbed 11 rebounds, scored six points, and contributed two assists and a steal. While she has encountered challenges, such as foul trouble against formidable opponents like Brittney Griner, these experiences have toughened her as she settles into her new role, just three months after concluding her college career at South Carolina.
Reflecting on her journey, Boston shared, “It’s a learning experience, but I’m enjoying every step of the way. The hardest part was playing against people I’ve looked up to. It makes you realize that it’s real. I used to watch them, and now we’re on the same level.”
Her impressive resume speaks volumes about her abilities. Boston was named the WNBA’s Rookie of the Month for both May and June, in addition to being recognized as the Eastern Conference’s top player overall for the week ending June 18. A few days later, she received the honor of being the league’s eighth rookie to start in the All-Star Game, a distinction previously achieved only by Shoni Schimmel in 2014.
Dawn Staley, Boston’s former college coach and a two-time national champion, expressed no surprise at her success. Staley praised Boston’s selflessness, humility, and decision-making on the court, likening her to A’ja Wilson, a renowned player who achieved greatness at a young age.
Statistically, Boston stands head and shoulders above her peers in this year’s draft class, with impressive averages of 15.0 points (21st), 8.4 rebounds (tied for seventh), and 1.4 blocks (tied for sixth).
However, Boston’s impact extends beyond the court. Her presence in the locker room has transformed the team’s culture, earning her high praise from teammates. Kelsey Mitchell, who recently made her first All-Star appearance, described Boston as effortlessly instilling joy and elevating the team to new heights despite her limited experience.
While there are other exceptional rookies in the league, such as Diamond Miller of the Minnesota Lynx, Maddy Siegrist of the Dallas Wings, and Seattle Storm’s duo Ivana Dojkic and Jordan Horston, none have made a bigger splash than Boston. Boston remains focused on her team’s success, aiming to guide the Fever to new heights and secure a playoff berth. She said, “I wanted to improve my game and elevate the program. Making the playoffs was a goal, and so far, I believe I’ve done a pretty good job. I’m excited for what’s to come.”
