Aliyah Boston at the V.I. Legislative Building in St. Thomas on Oct. 25, 2023. Photo Credit: V.I. LEGISLATURE
Aliyah Boston herself, the now-professional basketballer who has been blazing a trail for herself in the sport ever since her college freshman year, was on hand to testify during a hearing of the Senate Committee on Government Operations, Veterans Affairs & Consumer Protection on Wednesday.
The topic? Bill 35-0091, which seeks to bestow upon Ms. Boston a key to the territory, an honor for her many accomplishments in women’s and girls’ basketball, her contribution as an ambassador for the territory and her contribution to sports worldwide.
Senator Marvin Blyden, the bill’s sponsor, noted during his presentation that “Aliyah is one of the most decorated NCAA Women’s Basketball players in NCAA history.” However, Cleone Boston, Aliyah's mother, told lawmakers that her daughter’s greatness is not just limited to on the court. “There are aspects of her life that go beyond what you see during the games. These qualities make her truly worthy of this honor,” her mother explained.
VI basketball supporter and vice president of the Tim Duncan Foundation, Rashidi Clenance told lawmakers that “Aliyah Boston is deserving of every honor bestowed upon her and it’s a lot at this point.” He noted that she was the most decorated high school basketball player from the Virgin islands, as a Jordan Brannon and McDonald’s All American. “Returning home to conduct a basketball camp, wanting to have a female AAU team, [these] are the reasons I love and respect Aliyah Boston,” he said.
Former women’s basketball coach at the Worcester Academy, Sherry Levin, called Aliyah “a remarkable individual whose contributions have left an indelible mark on the lives of so many.” Saying that her rare combination of raw talent, passion and an “indomitable spirit” is what fueled her rise in the sport, Ms. Levin argued that Aliyah's "natural gifts are unmatched, but the spark that energizes her to be the best version of herself is what truly sets her apart.” Both on and off the court, “Aliyah consistently demonstrates an unparalleled commitment to making everyone around her better, and her relentless pursuit of excellence has not only elevated her own career, but has also set a high standard for those around her.”
Ms. Levin made the case for honoring the young basketball player. “Her legacy is one built on honor, selflessness, dedication and tireless commitment,” she declared.
Aliyah, who just days ago was named one of the top 30 NCAA women of the year, thanked committee members for their consideration of this legislation, and spoke words of encouragement to young Virgin Islander. “Put the work in,” she said. “Set goals for yourself – set high goals. Don't just think, 'oh, because I'm in the Virgin Islands, I shouldn't set high goals.' There's a possibility, there's a door. God finds different people to put in your path, no matter where.”
