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Aliyah Boston
Aliyah Boston
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Aliyah Boston (born December 11, 2001) is an American professional basketball power forward and center for the Indiana Fever of the Women's National Basketball Association (WNBA) and for the Phantom of Unrivaled. She was named 2023 WNBA Rookie of the Year in a unanimous vote and the AP Rookie of the Year. She played college basketball at the University of South Carolina.

Key Information

Born in Saint Thomas, United States Virgin Islands, Boston attended Worcester Academy in Worcester, Massachusetts, where she was a McDonald's All-American and a three-time Massachusetts Gatorade Player of the Year.[1] Boston has won several gold medals representing the United States.

Boston led South Carolina to their second national championship in school history in 2022 and was named the NCAA Tournament Most Outstanding Player (MOP). That year, she also won Player of the Year and Defensive Player of the Year honors. Boston won the Lisa Leslie Award as the best center in NCAA women's basketball in four consecutive years.

On April 1, 2023, Boston declared for the 2023 WNBA draft. Boston chose to forgo her extra year of eligibility granted to college athletes due to the COVID-19 pandemic.[2] She ended her four-year collegiate career with a record of 129 wins and 9 losses.[3] Boston was the first overall pick in the WNBA draft on April 10, 2023, selected by the Indiana Fever.[4]

Early life and education

[edit]

Boston was born on December 11, 2001, to parents Cleone and Al in Saint Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands. Boston fell in love with basketball at age 9 while watching her older sister Alexis play. At age 12, Aliyah and Alexis moved from their home in the Virgin Islands, to New England to live with their aunt, Jenaire Hodge, and her cousin, Kira Punter. Boston would only see her parents a few times over the following years, mostly to watch Aliyah's AAU basketball games.[5][6]

"When I first started playing, it was kind of just for fun, but then I realized how much you could get out of playing. So we've all had faith in God that I could; my goal is to go to college with a scholarship. God has helped us with that".

— Aliyah Boston[5]

Boston attended Worcester Academy in Worcester, Massachusetts, winning Gatorade Massachusetts Player of the Year honors in 2017, 2018, and 2019. Boston led her team to a 24–1 record and a second straight New England Prep School Athletic Council (NEPSAC) Class A championship in 2019. That year, she was a consensus All-American, averaging 17.3 points, 10.6 rebounds and 3.2 blocks per game. Boston was selected to play in the McDonald's All-American Game and the Jordan Brand Classic in 2019.[7]

A five-star recruit, Boston was ranked third in the ESPN HoopGurlz 2019 class.[8] Boston committed to Dawn Staley and the South Carolina Gamecocks over UConn, Ohio State, and Notre Dame, giving the Gamecocks the consensus number one recruiting class for 2019.[9]

College career

[edit]

2019–20: Freshman season

[edit]
Boston with South Carolina in 2020.

In her first game at the University of South Carolina on November 5, 2019, Boston posted the first triple-double by a freshman in program history and the first by any NCAA Division I player in her career debut against Alabama State, including a school-record tying 10 blocks.[10] Boston helped lead the Gamecocks to a big early season road win against No. 4 Maryland scoring eight of the team's first 10 points and blocking five shots in the opening quarter.

In the 2019 Paradise Jam, Boston won Reef Division MVP after she had 20 points, and 13 rebounds in a win against No. 2 Baylor clinching the tournament championship. On January 20, 2020, Boston notched her eighth double-double of the season finishing with 12 rebounds, and 21 points in a win over No. 9 Mississippi State. Boston played a huge role in the No. 1 Gamecocks first-ever victory over the UConn Huskies on February 10, capturing her tenth double-double.[7]

Against LSU, Boston blocked five shots to become the program's all-time freshman blocks leader in a win. Boston would finish the regular season averaging a double-double against SEC competition (13.1 PPG/10.3 RPG) as the No. 1 Gamecocks (32–1) swept the SEC regular season and tournament championships.[7]

Boston was named consensus Freshman of the Year, and was part of the first team in Gamecock history to end the season ranked No. 1 in the nation, claiming that spot in both the AP Poll and the USA Today Coaches Poll, before the NCAA tournament was canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic.[7]

2020–21: Sophomore season

[edit]

Boston started off the season hot against 23rd ranked Iowa State, recording five of the team's first 10 points which included a 3 pointer, she then scored four of her season high 13 points off offensive rebounds. Against Florida, Boston continued to show her all around game when she hit three 3's and recorded 28 points, 16 rebounds, and 4 blocks. Scoring 19 points, and 11 rebounds in the first half and became the 11th fastest Gamecock to score 500 points in her career. On January 10 in a win at 10th ranked Kentucky, Boston put up 20 points and 12 rebounds, scoring her fourth double double of the season and also included seven blocks, she would earn SEC co-player of the week honors. Boston helped secure a 104–82 win over 17th ranked Arkansas; she finished with 26 points and 16 rebounds. she scored six points, six rebounds and three blocks in the game's opening five minutes. On January 21 in a win vs. Georgia, Boston made history the program's first triple-double in SEC play finishing with 16 points, 11 rebounds, and 10 blocks. Against LSU, Boston notched her third straight double-double with 20 points, 14 rebounds. Facing a tough double team against Alabama, Boston remained poised and handed out a career high 6 assist to go with 13 rebounds. In a road game against UConn, Boston completed her eighth double-double on the season, pulling down 15 rebounds, including eight in the final 15 minutes.

Boston was crucial in the Gamecocks SEC Tournament Championship win, in the semifinals vs. Tennessee, Boston scored 15 points and 11 rebounds, and in the finals against Georgia scored 27 points, 10 rebounds. Boston was named SEC Tournament MVP, she recorded double doubles in all three of the Gamecocks games. In her NCAA Tournament debut against no. 16th seeded Mercer, she would notch a 20-point and 18 rebound game. In the elite eight against Texas, Boston scored six of her ten points the first quarter. Boston had 16 rebounds in the season ending loss against Stanford and missed a potential game winning lay-up at the buzzer as South Carolina lost 66–65. At the conclusion of the season, she was named Lisa Leslie award winner for the second straight year, was named consensus First Team All-American, and was named National Player of the year by The Athletic.[7]

Boston is also the first sophomore ever to be named by the College Sports Information Directors of America as its Academic All-American of the Year in D-I women's basketball, being so honored in 2021.[11]

2021–22: Junior season

[edit]

On February 24 she broke the SEC record with her 20th consecutive double-double in the win at Texas A&M.

In the Final Four, she had in a win against #4 Louisville, 15 points and 10 rebounds. In South Carolina's 64–49 National Championship win over UConn, Boston had 11 points and 16 rebounds for her 30th double-double of the season. It was the program's second national championship. She was named the NCAA Tournament MOP.[12]

2022–23: Senior season

[edit]

Boston scored 14 points and grabbed 13 rebounds in South Carolina's 76–71 win at No. 2 Stanford. On November 27, 2022, Boston suffered a leg injury in a win against Hampton. In the 2023 NCAA tournament, South Carolina advanced to the Final Four but lost 73–77 to Iowa which shattered their 42-game winning streak.[13]

She finished her senior year as a unanimous first-team All-American for the third consecutive year, and also won Naismith Defensive Player of the Year, the Lisa Leslie Award, SEC Player of the Year, and SEC Defensive Player of the Year.[14]

Professional career

[edit]

WNBA (2023–present)

[edit]

2023: Rookie of the Year

[edit]

On April 10, 2023, Boston became the first overall pick in the 2023 WNBA draft, selected by the Indiana Fever (first in franchise history).[4] After her first four games, Boston won WNBA Rookie of the Month in May after averaging 15.8 points, 6.0 rebounds, and 1.3 blocks per game.[15] On June 20, she was awarded WNBA Eastern Conference Player of the Week.[16] At the end of June, Boston was awarded WNBA Rookie of the Month again while also being named a starter for the 2023 WNBA All-Star Game – becoming just the eighth rookie in league history to start the game – finishing with six points and a team-high 11 rebounds.[17] Before the playoffs started, Boston won the final WNBA Rookie of the Month award of the season averaging 14.6 points, 9.4 rebounds, and 1.8 blocks per game in August.[18]

At the end of the 2023 season, Boston was unanimously named WNBA Rookie of the Year.[19] She was also named annual Rookie of the Year by the Associated Press as well as earning AP All-Rookie Team recognition.[19] Furthermore, she became the first player in WNBA history to ever lead the league in field goal percentage (57.8%) as a rookie.[20]

2024: Sophomore season

[edit]

On December 10, 2023, Boston represented the Fever at the 2024 WNBA draft lottery, helping Indiana secure the first overall pick for the second straight year, where they selected Caitlin Clark.[21]

On June 18, 2024, Boston was named the Eastern Conference Player of the Week.[22] On July 2, 2024, Boston was named to the Team WNBA All-Star team and received the second most fan votes of any player (618,680 votes).[23]

2025: Third season

[edit]

In April 2025, the Fever exercised their fourth-year option for Boston, extending her contract into the 2026 season.[24][25]

On June 30, 2025, Boston was named as an All-Star starter for the third time in her career.[26]

Unrivaled (2024–present)

[edit]

On October 31, 2024, it was announced that Boston would appear and play in the inaugural 2025 season of Unrivaled, the women's 3-on-3 basketball league founded by Napheesa Collier and Breanna Stewart.[27][28] She played for the Vinyl in the 2025 season.

On November 5th, 2025, it was announced that Boston had been drafted by Phantom BC for the 2026 Unrivaled season.[29]

National team career

[edit]
Boston with the United States at the 2018 Summer Youth Olympics.

Boston has represented the United States at various international competitions, including the 2017 FIBA Under-16 Women's Americas Championship, 2018 Summer Youth Olympics, 2018 FIBA Under-17 Women's Basketball World Cup, and 2019 FIBA Under-19 Women's Basketball World Cup winning gold each time, she was named MVP of the FIBA Americas U16 Championship. Boston also won gold at the 2021 FIBA Women's AmeriCup.

Career statistics

[edit]
Legend
  GP Games played   GS  Games started  MPG  Minutes per game  RPG  Rebounds per game
 APG  Assists per game  SPG  Steals per game  BPG  Blocks per game  PPG  Points per game
 TO  Turnovers per game  FG%  Field-goal percentage  3P%  3-point field-goal percentage  FT%  Free-throw percentage
 Bold  Career best ° League leader
* Denotes season(s) in which Boston won an NCAA Championship

WNBA

[edit]

Regular season

[edit]

Stats current through end of 2025 season

WNBA regular season statistics[30]
Year Team GP GS MPG FG% 3P% FT% RPG APG SPG BPG TO PPG
2023 Indiana 40° 40° 31.2 .578° .400 .745 8.4 2.2 1.3 1.3 1.9 14.5
2024 Indiana 40° 40° 30.9 .529 .269 .736 8.9 3.2 0.9 1.2 2.0 14.0
2025 Indiana 44 44 30.2 .538 .207 .762 8.2 3.7 1.2 0.9 1.8 15.0
Career 3 years, 1 team 124 124 30.7 .547 .262 .749 8.5 3.0 1.1 1.1 1.9 14.5
All-Star 3 2 15.2 .563 .143 .000 6.3 1.7 0.3 0.0 0.7 6.3

Playoffs

[edit]
WNBA playoff statistics
Year Team GP GS MPG FG% 3P% FT% RPG APG SPG BPG TO PPG
2024 Indiana 2 2 32.5 .577 .750 15.0° 3.0 0.5 2.0 2.0 16.5
2025 Indiana 8 8 31.5 .441 .111 .680 11.4 4.1 0.5 0.4 1.9 12.5
Career 2 years, 1 team 10 10 31.7 .471 .111 .690 12.1 3.9 0.5 0.7 1.9 13.3

College

[edit]
NCAA statistics
Year Team GP GS MPG FG% 3P% FT% RPG APG SPG BPG TO PPG
2019–20 South Carolina 33 33 23.8 .608 .167 .738 9.4 1.0 1.3 2.6 1.1 12.5
2020–21 South Carolina 31 31 30.3 .485 .265 .764 11.5 1.6 1.2 2.6 1.6 13.7
2021–22* South Carolina 37 37 27.5 .542 .292 .771 12.5 2.0 1.2 2.4 1.5 16.8
2022–23 South Carolina 37 37 26.2 .559 .105 .753 9.8 1.9 .5 2.0 1.2 13.0
Career 138 138 27.2 .546 .242 .759 10.8 1.7 1.0 2.4 1.4 14.1

Awards and honors

[edit]
WNBA
Indiana Fever
  • Single-season leader in rebounds (2024)[35]
NCAA
International
High school
Media

Records

[edit]

NCAA

[edit]
  • Most career rebounds in the NCAA tournament: 199
  • Most career offensive rebounds in the NCAA tournament: 70
  • Highest career average rebounds per game in the NCAA tournament: 12.4

Southeastern Conference

[edit]
  • Most career triple-doubles: 2
  • Most consecutive double-doubles in a single season: 27 (2021–22)

South Carolina Gamecocks

[edit]

Career

  • Most career games started: 138
  • Most consecutive games started: 138
  • Most career rebounds: 1,493
  • Most career offensive rebounds: 518
  • Most career defensive rebounds: 975
  • Most career triple-doubles: 2
  • Most career double-doubles: 82

Senior (2022–23)

  • Most games played in a single season: 37
  • Most games started in a single season: 37

Junior (2021–22)

  • Most games played in a single season: 37
  • Most games started in a single season: 37
  • Most rebounds in a single season: 462
  • Most offensive rebounds in a single season: 150
  • Most defensive rebounds in a single season: 312
  • Most shots blocked by a junior: 90
  • Most double-doubles posted in a single season: 30
  • Most consecutive double-doubles posted in a single season: 27 (2021–22)
  • Most offensive rebounds in a single game: 12 (March 24, 2022)
  • Highest field goal percentages in a single game: 100.0% (November 29, 2021)
  • Fastest player to reach 1,000 points

Sophomore (2020–21)

  • Most shots blocked in a single game: 10 (January 21, 2021)
  • First player to post a triple-double in an SEC game (January 21, 2021)

Freshman (2019–20)

  • Most games started by a freshman: 33
  • Most shots blocked by a freshman: 86
  • Most double-doubles posted by a freshman: 13
  • Most shots blocked in a single game: 10 (November 5, 2019)
  • First freshman to post a triple-double (November 5, 2019)

Off the court

[edit]

Education and broadcasting

[edit]

Boston graduated from the University of South Carolina in 2023 with a degree in communications.[36] As of 2023 she planned to work in broadcast sports journalism after her playing career.[37]

She later joined NBC Sports as a studio analyst for their Big Ten and Notre Dame women's basketball coverage after her rookie WNBA season.[citation needed]

Philanthropy

[edit]

In February 2024, Boston joined the WNBA Changemakers Collective and their collaboration with VOICEINSPORT (VIS) as a mentor, "aimed at keeping girls in sport and developing diverse leaders on the court and beyond the game."[38][39]

Business interests

[edit]

In October 2024, Boston appeared in a TikTok ad campaign for TOGETHXR and Aflac alongside Fever teammate, Lexie Hull.[40][41] In July 2025, Boston joined the ownership group for the Boston Legacy FC.[42]

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia
from Grokipedia
Aliyah Boston is an American professional player who serves as a forward/center for the of the (WNBA). Born on December 11, 2001, in St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands, she moved to , at age 12 to live with her aunt and pursue competitive opportunities. At , Boston led her teams to an 86-10 record over four seasons, securing two Class AA Preparatory School Athletic Council (NEPSAC) championships and earning MVP honors in both title games. Boston played for the Gamecocks from 2019 to 2023, where she became one of the program's most decorated players. She helped lead the Gamecocks to the 2022 NCAA Championship, earning NCAA Most Outstanding Player honors, and was named the 2022 winner as National Player of the Year. Boston received the Naismith College Player of the Year award in 2022 and the Naismith Defensive Player of the Year in both 2022 and 2023, becoming the first player to win the latter consecutively. She also won the Honda Cup as Collegiate Woman Athlete of the Year and SEC Female Athlete of the Year in 2022, along with two SEC MVP awards in 2022 and 2023. Over her college career, Boston was a four-time All-American and four-time SEC Player of the Year, averaging 13.0 points, 9.7 rebounds, and 1.7 blocks per game. Selected as the No. 1 overall pick in the by the , Boston had an immediate impact, earning unanimous WNBA Rookie of the Year honors after averaging 14.5 points, 8.5 rebounds, and 2.0 assists per game in her debut season. She was named to the 2023 All-Rookie Team and has since been selected as a WNBA in each of her first three seasons (2023–2025). In 2025, her third professional season, Boston started all 44 games, averaging 15.0 points, 8.2 rebounds, 3.7 assists, and 1.2 steals per game while shooting 53.8% from the field, leading to her first All-WNBA Second Team selection and All-Defensive Second Team honors. She became the fastest player in Fever franchise history to reach 1,000 career rebounds, with a career total of 1,051 rebounds through the 2025 season. Through the 2025 season, Boston's career averages stand at 14.5 points, 8.5 rebounds, and 3.0 assists per game across 124 appearances.

Early life and high school

Family background and relocation

Aliyah Boston was born on December 11, 2001, in St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands, to parents Cleone Boston and Algernon Boston. Her mother, Cleone, is a native of the U.S. Virgin Islands, while her instilled strong values and a supportive environment that emphasized and athletics from an early age. Boston has one older sister, Alexis, who played a significant role in shaping her interests and serving as a within the . Boston's early exposure to basketball began at age 9 in the U.S. Virgin Islands, where she was inspired to start playing after watching her sister Alexis participate in the sport. Local influences on the island, including community games and family encouragement, helped foster her initial passion, though opportunities for competitive play were limited compared to the mainland United States. She often practiced against her sister, honing basic skills in a laid-back Caribbean setting that emphasized fun and family involvement over structured training. At age 12, in 2014, Boston and her sister Alexis relocated from St. Thomas to , to live with their aunt, Jenaire Hodge, in a decision driven by their parents' desire to provide better basketball development opportunities. This move separated the sisters from their parents, who remained in the , marking a significant sacrifice to access advanced coaching and competitive leagues unavailable on the island. The transition presented initial challenges, including adapting to Massachusetts' harsh winters, which contrasted sharply with the year-round 70-to-80-degree tropical climate and pristine beaches of St. Thomas. Boston later recalled the first year's weather as "really bad," but she viewed the as motivation to focus on training. Cultural differences, such as a faster-paced environment and greater emphasis on organized sports, also required adjustment, though her aunt maintained family traditions to ease the shift. Over time, these experiences built her resilience and accelerated her growth in the sport.

High school career and recruitment

Boston enrolled at in , in 2015, where she quickly emerged as a dominant force in girls' basketball over her four-year high school career. Standing at 6-foot-5, she showcased exceptional post skills, rebounding prowess, and leadership that propelled the Hilltoppers to an impressive 86-10 overall record during her tenure. Her family's relocation from the U.S. Virgin Islands provided the foundation for this success by immersing her in a competitive prep school environment. As a junior and senior, Boston solidified her status as Massachusetts' top player, earning the Massachusetts Girls Player of the Year award in both and , after previously winning it as a in 2017. She averaged double-doubles in scoring and rebounding each season, with her senior year stats including 17.3 points, 10.6 rebounds, and 3.2 blocks per game, helping achieve a 24-1 record. Boston's defensive presence and scoring ability in the paint were instrumental in leading the team to back-to-back Preparatory School Athletic Council (NEPSAC) Class AA championships in and , earning her tournament MVP honors in both title games. Boston's high school excellence drew national attention during the recruitment process, culminating in her commitment to the on November 21, 2018. Ranked as the No. 3 overall recruit and top post player in the 2019 class by , she chose the Gamecocks over powerhouse programs including UConn, Notre Dame, and , citing coach Dawn Staley's vision for her development. Her decision headlined South Carolina's No. 1 recruiting class for 2019, which included three All-Americans. Capping her prep career, Boston was selected to the 2019 , where she represented the East team and contributed 9 points and 10 rebounds in a standout performance among the nation's elite prospects. This honor, along with her accolades and championship leadership, underscored her trajectory as one of the most coveted talents in .

College career

Freshman season (2019–20)

Aliyah Boston transitioned to at the in the fall of 2019, bringing her high school prowess as a dominant post player and defender to the Gamecocks program under coach . Her integration was swift, as she earned a starting role early in the season, leveraging her 6-foot-5 frame to anchor the team's interior defense and rebounding efforts. Boston's physicality and shot-blocking ability allowed her to adapt to the faster pace and increased competition of the NCAA level, where she focused on establishing her presence in the paint while learning to complement veteran teammates. Boston made an immediate impact in her collegiate debut on November 5, 2019, against , recording the first triple-double by a in program history with 12 points, 12 rebounds, and a remarkable 10 blocks in a 107-49 . This set the tone for her defensive dominance, as she led the nation in blocks early in the season with 24 swats through the Gamecocks' first six games. She quickly became a fixture in the , starting all 33 games she appeared in during the season impacted by the . Over the course of the year, Boston averaged 12.5 points, 9.4 rebounds (including 3.5 offensive), and 2.6 blocks per game, shooting 60.8% from the field while contributing to 's undefeated 16-0 SEC regular-season record. Her campaign featured several standout performances against ranked opponents, showcasing her ability to deliver in high-stakes matchups. For instance, on January 20, 2020, Boston posted a with 21 points and 12 rebounds in a 76-62 win over No. 9 Mississippi State, helping secure a key SEC victory. Boston's defensive impact was particularly notable, as her block average ranked her among the top shot-blockers nationally and earned her the SEC Defensive Player of the Year award as a —the first such honor for a Gamecock in program history. This rim protection was instrumental in limiting opponents' interior scoring, allowing to maintain one of the nation's best defenses. Boston played a pivotal role in South Carolina's 2020 SEC Tournament championship run in , where the Gamecocks went undefeated to claim the title before the NCAA Tournament was canceled due to the . In the semifinals against LSU, she contributed 10 points and 9 rebounds, while in the final against Georgia, she added 11 points and 13 rebounds to help secure a 65-52 victory. Her efforts throughout the tournament underscored her growing influence on a team that finished 32-1 overall and No. 1 in the final . For her outstanding debut season, Boston was named the SEC Freshman of the Year and USBWA National Freshman of the Year, recognizing her rapid adjustment and contributions to the program's success.

Sophomore season (2020–21)

In the COVID-19-shortened 2020–21 season, Aliyah Boston emerged as a dominant force for the , starting all 31 games she appeared in and averaging 13.7 points, 11.5 rebounds, 1.6 assists, 1.6 steals, and 2.6 blocks per game. Her rebounding prowess anchored the team's interior defense, contributing to South Carolina's strong performance en route to the SEC Tournament title and a appearance in the NCAA , where they fell to Stanford. Boston's impact was evident in key matchups, such as the first-round NCAA Tournament win over Mercer, where she recorded 20 points and 18 rebounds. Under coach Dawn Staley's guidance, Boston refined her post play during the offseason, focusing on shot development amid restrictions, which translated to increased offensive efficiency with a 48.5% . She displayed growing leadership on a veteran-laden roster, often vocalizing defensive assignments and motivating teammates during South Carolina's 26–5 overall record and 14–2 SEC mark. Her contributions helped the Gamecocks secure their second straight SEC Tournament championship, with Boston earning Tournament MVP honors after averaging 19.3 points and 11.3 rebounds. Boston's breakout campaign earned her first major individual accolades, including co-SEC Defensive Player of the Year alongside Georgia's Que Morrison, recognizing her rim protection and rebounding dominance. She was also selected as a WBCA Coaches' All-American and named The Athletic's National Player of the Year, highlighting her all-around impact as a sophomore. Additionally, she received the Center of the Year Award and unanimous first-team All-American honors from multiple outlets.

Junior season (2021–22)

In her junior season, Aliyah Boston started all 37 games for the , averaging 16.8 points, 12.5 rebounds, and 2.4 blocks per game while shooting 54.2% from the field. Building on her year's rebounding records, which established her as a dominant force on the boards, Boston expanded her all-around impact with improved scoring efficiency and defensive presence. The Gamecocks finished the year with a 35–2 record, capturing both the SEC regular-season title with a 16–0 conference mark and the SEC tournament championship. Boston's leadership propelled to its first NCAA , defeating UConn 64–49 in the title game on April 3, 2022, where she recorded 11 points and a game-high 16 rebounds to go with 2 blocks. Throughout the NCAA tournament, her clutch performances were pivotal, including double-doubles in key wins that showcased her ability to deliver under pressure during the title run. She earned the Naismith Defensive Player of the Year award for her rim protection and rebounding prowess. Her outstanding season culminated in multiple national honors, including the AP Player of the Year, Naismith College Player of the Year, and the for .

Senior season (2022–23)

In her senior season, Aliyah Boston averaged 13.0 points, 9.8 rebounds, 1.9 assists, and 2.0 blocks per game across 37 appearances for the , contributing to the team's undefeated regular season and conference tournament championship. She earned her second consecutive (SEC) Player of the Year honor, along with her fourth straight SEC Defensive Player of the Year award, recognizing her dominance on both ends of the floor. Boston's efficiency stood out, as she shot 55.9% from the field while anchoring the Gamecocks' interior defense and rebounding efforts. The Gamecocks, ranked No. 1 for much of the season, advanced to the NCAA with a dominant run, defeating 86-75 in the before falling 77-73 to in the semifinals, ending their 36-game winning streak. Boston recorded 10 points and 10 rebounds in the Elite Eight victory, helping secure the team's third consecutive NCAA Tournament appearance under her leadership. Her defensive presence was pivotal in limiting opponents' second-chance opportunities throughout the postseason. Notable performances included a 25-point, 11-rebound in the SEC Tournament championship win over Georgia, where she shot 11-of-15 from the field to clinch the title. Boston also notched multiple games with season-high blocks, including five rejections against Stanford and LSU, showcasing her shot-altering ability. Over her college career, she became South Carolina's all-time leader in rebounds (1,493) and blocks (330), solidifying her legacy as the program's most impactful post player. Following the loss, Boston declared for the on April 1, announcing her decision via and expressing gratitude for her time with the Gamecocks. Coach endorsed the move, highlighting Boston's readiness for professional after elevating the program's standards during her tenure.

WNBA career

Rookie season (2023)

Boston was selected as the first overall pick by the in the held on April 10, 2023, following her standout college career at where she led the Gamecocks to back-to-back national titles and earned multiple national player of the year honors. As the top prospect, she brought elite rebounding and interior scoring to a Fever team looking to rebuild after several losing seasons. In her campaign, appeared in all 40 games for the Fever, starting every one and averaging 14.5 points, 8.4 rebounds, 2.2 assists, 1.3 steals, and 1.3 blocks per game while shooting 57.8% from the field. She recorded 11 double-doubles, the most by a WNBA in 2023, and led the league in offensive rebounds with 125. Her efficiency and defensive presence helped the Fever improve their record to 13-27, their best since 2019, though they fell short of the . Boston's performance earned her the unanimous WNBA Rookie of the Year award, as voted by a panel of 60 sportswriters and broadcasters, making her the second player in Fever franchise history to win the honor after in 2002. She was also named to the WNBA All-Rookie First Team, recognizing her immediate impact as a foundational piece for the franchise. One of the primary challenges Boston faced in transitioning to the professional level was adapting to the WNBA's faster pace and more physical post play compared to , which required adjustments in her conditioning and decision-making under pressure. Despite these hurdles, she quickly established herself as a reliable starter and defensive anchor for the Fever.

Second season (2024)

In her sophomore season, Aliyah Boston built upon her unanimous 2023 WNBA Rookie of the Year , anchoring the Indiana Fever's frontcourt with consistent production. She appeared in all 40 regular-season games, starting each one, and averaged 14.0 points, 8.9 rebounds, 3.2 assists, and 1.2 blocks in 30.9 minutes per game. Boston shot an efficient 52.9% from the field, leading the Fever in rebounding with 356 total boards while providing rim protection and playmaking from the post. Boston earned her first WNBA All-Star nod in 2024, selected as a reserve alongside teammates and Kelsey Mitchell. In the on July 20, which featured Team WNBA against Team USA in place of the traditional conference format due to the Olympics, she played 9 minutes off the bench for the victors, recording 4 points on 2-of-3 shooting, 2 rebounds, 1 assist, and 1 block as Team WNBA defeated Team USA 117-109. The Fever posted a 20-20 record, a marked improvement that secured their first playoff berth since 2016 and ended a seven-year postseason drought. Boston contributed across the board, with her rebounding prowess and defensive presence helping stabilize the team's interior play. In the first round, however, was swept 2-0 by the , with Boston appearing in both games but limited to 18 total minutes amid the lopsided series. Midway through the season, Boston sustained a left ankle injury in a loss to the but managed it effectively without missing games, returning to full participation shortly after. Her growing on-court chemistry with rookie guard proved pivotal, as the duo's pick-and-roll synergy and transition plays boosted 's offensive efficiency, with Boston benefiting from Clark's passing to score efficiently inside.

Third season (2025)

In her third WNBA season, Aliyah Boston continued to anchor the Fever's frontcourt, averaging 15.0 points, 8.2 rebounds, 3.7 assists, and 1.2 steals per game across 44 regular-season appearances while shooting 53.8 percent from the field. She set a personal milestone with a career-high 31 points on June 25 against the , converting 13 of 18 field goal attempts alongside eight rebounds. Boston's versatility shone in another standout performance on August 26, where she tallied 27 points and nine rebounds in 27 minutes during a Fever victory. These efforts underscored her growing role as a facilitator and defender, building on her prior seasons' foundation to emerge as a key leader for the young roster. Boston earned her third consecutive All-Star selection as a starter for the 2025 WNBA All-Star Game held in July, highlighting her sustained impact amid the league's rising talent. The Fever finished the regular season with a 24-20 record, securing third place in the Eastern Conference and a playoff spot for the second straight year under coach . Boston's defensive presence contributed to the team's improved rebounding and paint protection, helping limit opponents to 81.5 points per game on average. In the playoffs, Boston started all games and delivered pivotal performances as the Fever advanced past the Atlanta Dream in the first round with an 87-85 clincher on September 18, where her layup with 7.4 seconds left sealed the series victory. Facing the Las Vegas Aces in the semifinals, she recorded a playoff career-high 24 points, 14 rebounds, and five assists in Game 4 on September 28, becoming the first player in WNBA postseason history to achieve 20-plus points, 10-plus rebounds, and five-plus assists in a single game and forcing a decisive Game 5. Despite the effort, the Fever fell in Game 5 on September 30, ending their championship contention, though Boston's contributions elevated the team's defensive schemes and postseason resilience. At season's end, Boston garnered All-WNBA Second Team and All-Defensive Second Team honors on October 10, recognizing her dual-threat prowess and career-high assist average as a measure of her evolving leadership.

Other professional endeavors

Unrivaled league participation

In October 2024, Aliyah Boston joined Unrivaled, a new professional women's league co-founded by WNBA stars and to provide elite off-season competition and higher player compensation. Boston participated in Unrivaled's inaugural 2025 season, held in Miami, Florida, where the league featured six teams playing a nine-week schedule of half-court games emphasizing speed, spacing, and skill in a 3-on-3 format. She played for Vinyl BC, alongside teammates such as , , Jordin Canada, , and , a roster blending scoring guards and versatile forwards. During the season, Boston provided consistent scoring and rebounding in the fast-paced 3x3 environment, averaging 5.9 points and 5.0 rebounds per game. Her contributions included double-digit scoring in several matchups, such as a 10-point debut that helped Vinyl BC secure a 79-73 opening win over Rose BC, and strong rebounding efforts that aided the team's transition play. Vinyl BC finished with a competitive record, advancing to the as the No. 4 seed before falling to Rose BC 62-54 in the championship game on March 17, 2025. The league's January-to-March timing complemented Boston's WNBA schedule, offering intensive training that enhanced her footwork, decision-making, and conditioning for the Fever's summer campaign. Unrivaled's high-profile format, broadcast on national networks, boosted visibility for by showcasing stars like Boston in innovative gameplay. In September 2025, committed to the league's second season, set for January 2026, where she was drafted to Phantom BC alongside players including , , and .

Endorsements and media appearances

signed a multiyear footwear and apparel endorsement deal with in May 2023, shortly after being selected as the No. 1 overall pick in the by the . In June 2025, she debuted her signature logo on the Adidas D.O.N. Issue 6 sneaker, signaling potential for a full signature shoe line in the future. Her WNBA achievements, including Rookie of the Year honors in 2023, have elevated her marketability, contributing to expanded commercial opportunities. In 2024, Boston added partnerships with , featuring in campaigns with the Aflac Duck to promote , and , including event appearances. These deals often incorporate elements supporting access, aligning with her advocacy for girls in without delving into separate philanthropic efforts. Boston has made notable media appearances, including features in Sports Illustrated's 2025 May issue cover shoot alongside Fever teammates , Kelsey Mitchell, and , highlighting the team's impact on the league. She has appeared on broadcasts and segments discussing her career and the WNBA's growth. In 2025, Boston co-launched the podcast Post Moves with WNBA legend , offering insights on and culture, which premiered in July and has featured candid discussions on league dynamics. From 2024 to 2025, Boston's media presence grew with a return to and Peacock as a analyst, covering Big Ten women's games and contributing to studio segments during the offseason. Her involvement in the Unrivaled 3x3 league, which debuted in 2025 with as its official apparel partner, has included promotional appearances, though her primary apparel endorsement remains with . On social media, Boston maintains an account with approximately 384,000 followers as of late 2025, where she regularly posts about her games, training, and initiatives to inspire young athletes in .

International career

Youth national teams

Aliyah Boston's international career began with her selection to the USA U17 National Team following standout performances in high school at , where her dominance as a post player earned her a spot in 's youth development pipeline. In preparation for the 2018 U17 World Cup, Boston participated in training camps that emphasized team chemistry and skill refinement, helping her integrate with future stars like and ahead of her transition. These pre- experiences marked her shift from domestic high school to the global stage, showcasing her rebounding prowess and defensive instincts in high-stakes environments. At the 2018 FIBA U17 World Cup in , , Boston started all seven games for the undefeated team, which captured with a 7-0 record after defeating 92-40 in the final. She averaged team-highs of 11.3 points and 7.1 rebounds per game, including multiple double-digit scoring efforts that highlighted her interior presence and shot-blocking ability, earning her a place on the All-Tournament Team. Boston's defensive standout performances, such as recording key blocks and rebounds in crucial matches, were instrumental in the USA's dominant run, solidifying her reputation as a rising force in youth international . Building on this success, Boston earned selection to the USA U19 National Team through additional trials and training camps in 2019, further honing her game for the FIBA U19 Women's World Cup in , . The USA team won gold, defeating 74-70 in in the final, where Boston delivered a pivotal with 12 points and 11 rebounds. Her contributions throughout the tournament, including consistent double-doubles and defensive stops, underscored her growth and seamless adaptation to the increased physicality of the U19 level just before her freshman year at the .

Senior national team

Boston's senior international debut came during her sophomore year of college with the 2021 USA Women's AmeriCup team. She started five of six games, averaging 12.5 points, 9.3 rebounds, and 1.8 assists per game, helping the USA secure gold with a 6-0 record after defeating 84-59 in the final. Her double-doubles, including 17 points and 19 rebounds in the semifinal against , highlighted her impact as one of the youngest players on the roster. Her continued involvement with the senior team included selection to the 2022 as the only collegiate player invited, providing early exposure to elite competition under head coach . Following her graduation and entry into the WNBA, she earned a spot on the 2023 USA Women's National Team roster, marking her professional-level involvement. In November 2023 exhibitions, Boston came off the bench, averaging contributions such as 6 points, 6 rebounds, 3 blocks, 1 assist, and 1 steal in 17 minutes against the , helping the team secure a 95-59 . These appearances built on her youth national team successes, serving as a pathway to senior opportunities. Her official senior competitive debut occurred at the 2024 Women's Olympic Qualifying Tournament in , where she helped the USA go undefeated at 3-0 to qualify for the Paris Olympics. Playing in two games, Boston averaged 5.0 points, 5.5 rebounds, 1.0 steal, and 1.0 block in 22.9 minutes, demonstrating her defensive presence and rebounding ability from the reserve role despite limited scoring output. Although she did not make the final 12-player roster for the 2024 Paris Olympics, where the USA captured gold under Reeve's leadership, Boston's qualifying performance highlighted her growing integration into the team's depth. Under Reeve's guidance, which emphasizes team chemistry and versatility, Boston's exhibitions and tournament minutes have positioned her as a promising reserve with potential to expand into larger roles in future cycles, such as preparations for the 2028 Olympics.

Career statistics

College statistics

Aliyah Boston concluded her collegiate career at the with impressive cumulative statistics, appearing in 138 games and starting all of them. She amassed 1,942 points, 1,493 rebounds (including 469 offensive rebounds), 229 assists, and 330 blocks, while shooting 55.7% from the field overall. Her efficiency inside the arc was particularly notable, with a career 57.5% on two-point attempts, underscoring her dominance as a post player. Boston's performance evolved year by year, reflecting her growth into a cornerstone of the Gamecocks' frontcourt. The following table summarizes her per-game averages in key categories:
SeasonGames (Starts)PointsReboundsAssistsBlocksFG%
2019–2033 (33)12.59.41.02.660.8%
2020–2131 (31)13.711.51.62.648.5%
2021–2237 (37)16.812.52.02.454.2%
2022–2337 (37)13.09.81.92.055.9%
Career138 (138)14.110.81.72.455.7%
These figures highlight her consistent double-double threat status, with 82 career s, including setting the South Carolina record with her 73rd in January 2023. In advanced metrics, Boston excelled as a rebounder and defender. She led the nation in total rebound percentage (TRB%) during the 2021–22 season at 22.5%, ranking first nationally, and finished her career with a 20.5% TRB%, placing her among the all-time elite in women's college basketball. Her defensive rating (DRtg) averaged 69.0 over four years, reflecting her impact on limiting opponents' scoring efficiency, particularly through her shot-blocking prowess. Boston's offensive rebound percentage (ORB%) consistently hovered above 15%, contributing to second-chance opportunities that bolstered 's possession advantage. Boston set several single-game benchmarks that showcased her versatility. Her career high in points came with 28 against in the 2022 NCAA Tournament Sweet 16, paired with 22 rebounds—a 20-20 performance that made her the fourth player in tournament history to achieve 25 points and 20 rebounds in a game. She recorded a career-high 22 rebounds in that same contest and tallied 10 blocks in a 2021 game against Georgia, tying a program record for blocks in a single outing. Additionally, she notched triple-doubles, including 16 points, 11 rebounds, and 10 blocks against Georgia in 2021. These outbursts often occurred in high-stakes matchups, amplifying her role in pivotal victories. Boston's statistical contributions were instrumental in South Carolina's team success, including undefeated regular seasons and the national title in 2022. Her rebounding dominance provided extra possessions, leading to a plus-12.5 rebound margin in games she played, while her blocks altered opponents' shooting strategies, holding foes to under 40% from the field in 70% of her appearances. These efforts not only elevated the Gamecocks' win total to 129-8 during her tenure but also positioned her as the program's all-time leader in rebounds and blocks.

WNBA regular season and playoffs

Aliyah Boston entered the WNBA as the first overall pick in the 2023 draft by the and quickly established herself as a dominant force in the paint, averaging double-doubles in her rookie season while anchoring the team's rebounding efforts. Over her first three seasons through 2025, she maintained consistent production, appearing in 124 regular-season games with career averages of 14.5 points, 8.5 rebounds, and 3.0 assists per game, contributing significantly to the Fever's playoff appearances in 2024 and 2025.

Regular Season Performance

Boston's regular-season statistics reflect her efficiency as a post player and her growth in playmaking. In 2023, she earned Rookie of the Year honors with strong rebounding and scoring inside. Her production dipped slightly in in 2024 due to an expanded role alongside new teammates, but she rebounded in 2025 with improved assists and defensive contributions, helping the Fever to a 24-20 record and a third-place Eastern Conference finish. The following table summarizes her per-game averages across these seasons:
SeasonGPMPGPPGRPGAPGSPGBPGFG%3P%FT%
20234031.214.58.52.01.31.3.578.000.745
20244030.914.08.93.20.91.2.529.167.736
20254430.215.08.23.71.21.1.583.207.758
Her shooting efficiencies highlight a reliance on close-range scoring, with field goal percentages remaining above 52% each year, though three-point attempts were minimal (career 0.6 makes per game at 24.4%). Free throw percentage trended upward from a challenging 2024 season, where she shot under 55% amid increased volume, to a more reliable 75.8% in 2025. Advanced metrics underscore her impact: Boston posted a (PER) of 22.8 in 2025, up from 20.1 in 2023 and 18.4 in 2024, while accumulating 6.2 that year, reflecting her value in rebounding and interior defense. Among milestone games, Boston flirted with triple-doubles regularly, recording near-misses in 2023 and 2024, such as 18 points, 15 rebounds, and 7 assists against the in August 2024. Her first WNBA triple-double came in the 2025 regular season, with 12 points, 10 rebounds, and 10 assists in a win over the on July 14.

Playoff Performance

The Fever missed the playoffs in Boston's 2023 rookie year, but she elevated her game in the postseason starting in 2024. In the first round against the , Boston averaged 16.5 points and 15.0 rebounds across two games, though the Fever were swept 0-2. Her efficiency stood out at 57.7% from the field and 57.7% from the free-throw line in limited minutes. In 2025, Boston's playoff run extended to eight games, averaging 12.5 points, 11.4 rebounds, and 4.1 assists per game while shooting 44.1% from the field and 47.6% from the free-throw line. She achieved a playoff high of 19 points and 9 rebounds in a semifinal game against the Las Vegas Aces, and recorded her first postseason triple-double—14 points, 12 rebounds, and 10 assists—in Game 4 of the semifinals on September 29, helping secure a series win. These performances contributed to a career playoff PER of 19.2 and highlighted her as a key factor in the Fever's deeper tournament advancement.

Awards, honors, and records

Major awards and honors

During her collegiate career at the , Aliyah Boston established herself as one of the premier players in , earning the Naismith College Player of the Year award in 2022 for her dominant performance that included leading the nation in double-doubles. She also captured the (SEC) Player of the Year honor in both 2022 and 2023, recognizing her as the top performer in the league during those seasons. Complementing her offensive prowess, Boston received the Honda Cup as the Collegiate Woman Athlete of the Year in 2022, highlighting her overall impact across athletics. She was named the 2022 National Player of the Year and NCAA Tournament Most Outstanding Player after leading to the . Boston earned the Naismith Defensive Player of the Year in 2022 and 2023, the first to win consecutively, along with four-time SEC Defensive Player of the Year (2020–2023). She won two SEC Tournament MVP awards in 2022 and 2023 and was named SEC Female Athlete of the Year in 2022. Additionally, she was selected as a four-time All-American, including three consecutive Women's Basketball Coaches Association (WBCA) All-American honors from 2021 to 2023. Transitioning to the WNBA with the , Boston quickly made her mark by winning the league's Rookie of the Year award in 2023, where she averaged 14.5 points and 8.4 rebounds per game while starting all 40 contests. She was named to the 2023 All-Rookie Team. Her rapid ascent continued with selections to the in each of her first three professional seasons (2023–2025). In 2025, Boston earned All-WNBA Second Team honors for the first time, reflecting her growth into a foundational frontcourt presence with averages of 15.0 points and 8.2 rebounds. That same year, she was named to the WNBA All-Defensive Second Team, acknowledging her defensive contributions that included ranking fourth league-wide in total rebounds with 361. On the international stage, Boston has been a key contributor to USA Basketball's youth and senior teams, amassing multiple gold medals early in her career. She won gold at the 2017 FIBA Under-16 Women's Americas Championship, where she was named tournament MVP after leading the U.S. to an undefeated run. added another gold and an All-Tournament Team selection at the 2018 FIBA Under-17 Women's World Cup, followed by gold at the 2019 FIBA Under-19 Women's World Cup. Her international success extended to the senior level with a at the 2021 , where she helped secure the U.S. victory in the final.

Notable records

During her college career at the , Aliyah Boston established multiple rebounding and defensive records. She concluded her tenure as the Gamecocks' all-time leader in career rebounds with 1,493, a mark that ranks 15th in NCAA history and fourth in (SEC) history. Boston also holds the record for career blocks with 213. In the 2021–22 season, she set the program's single-season rebound record with 462. In SEC play, Boston amassed the most career offensive rebounds with 455 and shares several single-game benchmarks, including a high of 21 rebounds against LSU in February 2022. Her 27 consecutive double-doubles during the 2021–22 season established an SEC record for the longest streak in conference games. In the WNBA, Boston set the Indiana Fever franchise record for most rebounds by a rookie with 335 during the 2023 season, leading all first-year players league-wide in the category. On the international stage, Boston contributed to the ' gold medal at the 2018 FIBA Under-17 World Cup, where she averaged 7.1 rebounds per game and recorded a tournament-high 14 rebounds in an exhibition victory over . Her performance helped the USA team set a tournament record for fewest points allowed in a game during the gold medal final. In 2025, continued her rebounding dominance in the WNBA by setting a new Fever single-season record with 361 rebounds, eclipsing her previous franchise mark of 355 from 2024; she also became the fastest player in team history to reach 1,000 career rebounds, totaling 1,051 career rebounds through the season. While participating in the inaugural Unrivaled 3x3 league season, she averaged 5.2 rebounds per game for Vinyl Basketball Club but did not establish any league records.

Personal life and off-court activities

Education and post-college pursuits

Boston earned a in communications from the in 2023, balancing her rigorous basketball schedule with coursework that prepared her for media-related careers. During her college tenure, she received multiple academic recognitions, including selection to the SEC Academic Honor Roll four times (2020, 2021, 2022, and 2023), highlighting her commitment to scholarly excellence alongside athletic dominance. Following her graduation and entry into the WNBA, Boston has pursued opportunities in sports broadcasting, debuting as a studio analyst for Peacock's coverage of Big Ten women's college during the 2023-24 season. She returned to and Peacock for the 2024-25 season and has agreed to rejoin the network as a analyst for the 2025-26 campaign, leveraging her communications background to provide insights on games. This work reflects her long-term aspiration to transition into broadcast after her playing career, influenced by a family emphasis on and personal development.

Philanthropy and community involvement

Aliyah Boston established the Aliyah Boston Foundation in the third quarter of 2024 to empower through sports, , and , with a particular emphasis on providing access to athletic opportunities and leadership development in the U.S. Virgin Islands (USVI) and other underserved communities. The foundation organizes annual camps in St. Thomas, where participants receive , , and resources to foster skill-building and personal growth. It also partners with organizations like Living Hope Cathedral to provide backpacks, sneakers, school supplies, and essentials to students, supporting community outreach initiatives that promote physical activity and holistic development for young athletes. Boston's philanthropic efforts extend to her role in the WNBA's Changemakers program, where she serves as a mentor for Voice in Sports (VIS), focusing on virtual mentoring and educational content to encourage girls and women to stay involved in athletics and build confidence. This involvement aligns with broader WNBA community service efforts in 2024 and 2025, emphasizing and for young female athletes. Her commitment is deeply rooted in her upbringing in St. Thomas, USVI, where limited resources inspired her to address barriers to access, including those exacerbated by like hurricanes that impacted her community. In November 2025, the foundation hosted the Pathway to Purpose: Youth Finance Summit at the , targeting 8th grade students and funding investment accounts for 100 local youth.

Business interests and activism

In July 2025, Boston became an investor in Boston Legacy FC, the National Women's Soccer League's expansion team set to debut in 2026, acquiring an undisclosed stake that reflects her commitment to advancing women's professional sports. Her investment aligns with a growing trend among WNBA players supporting cross-sport equity in women's athletics. Later that year, in August 2025, she joined the team's Athlete Advisory Board, alongside figures like and , to provide input on player welfare and development. Boston has extended her personal brand through media production, co-hosting the podcast Post Moves with WNBA legend , which launched in July 2025 and features discussions on strategy, player experiences, and league growth. The show emphasizes authentic conversations to engage fans and highlight narratives beyond the court. Her activism centers on gender equity and representation in sports, particularly for Black women athletes. In a 2022 interview, Boston emphasized the need for greater respect and visibility for Black women in sports, stating that inspiring young girls through representation is a core goal. She has spoken at women's empowerment events, including a 2024 partnership with Lean In and the WNBA to promote girls' leadership and confidence in sports. Boston's WNBA platform has amplified these efforts, allowing her to advocate for systemic changes in athletic opportunities. Boston draws influences from WNBA veterans, notably , whom she has cited as a pivotal figure in her development and a model for off-court impact in . Catchings' legacy of community leadership has shaped Boston's approach to blending athletic success with broader advocacy.

References

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