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New WNBA sensation Aliyah Boston is shaking up the Indiana Fever franchise, showing that a rookie can do more than just fit in — she can excel.
Boston's impressive inaugural season in the league has led her to become a strong contender for the Rookie of the Year honor, bringing much-needed optimism to Indiana Fever. This wave of hope follows the end of the team's 20-game losing streak prior to Boston's arrival, a record tied for the longest in the league. Currently, the team has equaled its total victories from the previous season, with prospects of surpassing their best single-season performance since 2019. A playoff berth, which has eluded the team since 2016, could also be on the horizon. With Boston on their side, it seems that the sky is the limit for the Fever.
The 6-foot-5, 220-pound rookie has adapted quickly to her new environment, bypassing the typical learning curve of a first-year player. Boston, a U.S. Virgin Islands native, has the strength, size, and skills to rival most seasoned professionals. Her standout performance in her All-Star Game debut, which included 11 rebounds, six points, two assists, and a steal, is a testament to her exceptional talent.
Despite some struggles with foul trouble, particularly when facing players like 6-9 Brittney Griner, Boston has managed to grow tougher and more comfortable in her new role. Her grit and determination are evident just three months after her successful college career at South Carolina.
In addition to her impressive physical performances, Boston has also excelled off the court. Her contributions to the team culture have been invaluable, with teammate Kelsey Mitchell praising her ability to instill a positive, effective work ethic among the team members.
Alongside her, there are other impressive rookies this season, like Minnesota's guard Diamond Miller, Dallas's forward Maddy Siegrist, and Seattle's rookie duo Ivana Dojkic and Jordan Horston. Still, none have created as much buzz as Boston.
Apart from her remarkable on-court performance, she has already been named the WNBA's Rookie of the Month for May and June, and the Eastern Conference's top overall player for the week ending June 18. Boston's prowess also earned her a starting spot in the All-Star Game — a feat no rookie has achieved since Shoni Schimmel in 2014.
Looking ahead, Boston has grand ambitions. As the 2022 Associated Press national player of the year and a three-time All-American, she's eager to continue honing her skills. Above all, Boston is focused on bringing the Indiana Fever to new heights and guiding the team to the playoffs — a goal she believes she is well on her way to achieving.
"I wanted to improve my game,'' Boston said. "But I also wanted to help bring the program to new heights, make the playoffs and I feel like I've done a pretty good job so far so I'm pretty excited.''
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