Getting to Know Aliya Boston

When Fever’s head coach, Stephanie White, designated Aliya Boston as the offensive focal point for the season, she likely didn’t realize just how crucial that decision would be.

“People often think of a hub as just someone who constantly passes, but that’s not the whole picture. It’s about using her to initiate other actions,” White reflected on Boston during preseason. “I want her to embrace a bit more selfishness in her game, but that will come with time as she grows more comfortable with her reads.”

Even injury issues sidelining Caitlyn Clark for much of the first half of the season couldn’t keep Boston from thriving. While Clark was out, Boston stepped up, becoming a driving force for the team.

In her third year, Boston has had a standout season, proving essential to the Fever’s performance, even securing the Commissioner’s Cup despite Clark’s absence. As the 2024 season progressed into 2025, Boston really found her rhythm, averaging 16 points per game with a shooting percentage of 56.3%.

Last year, much of her effectiveness came from working off of pick-and-rolls with Clark. However, this season, she demonstrated her ability to thrive independently. In the 11 games before the All-Star break—five of which were without Clark—Boston averaged an impressive 17.5 points and 7 rebounds, making 53.3% of her shots on roughly 12.5 attempts per game.

This adjustment in her shooting frequency has been revealing. Typically, Boston averages around 10.8 shots per game, but with Clark sidelined, she really stepped up, even scoring a career-high 31 points during one stretch.

Furthermore, Boston’s playmaking ability has played an essential role in the Fever’s stability this season. While White originally envisioned her as merely an offensive hub, it became clear that her growth as a playmaker was just as important.

Boston has had the ball in her hands more than ever. Her usage rate is at a career-high of 21.5%, and her assists are also up to 21.7%. Surprisingly, her turnovers are at a career-low of 10.2%.

Simply put, the Fever are expecting more from Boston, and she’s rising to the occasion.

This season has felt pivotal, especially given the inconsistencies around her. Clark has been in and out of the lineup, and while her efficiency has varied, Kelsey Mitchell has been a steady scoring leader.

Dewanna Bonner had shown promise as an experienced veteran until her release, while Sophie Cunningham contended with injuries. Meanwhile, Natasha Howard oscillated between standout moments—like being named MVP of the Commissioner’s Cup—and quieter games.

Amidst these ups and downs, Boston has remained a reliable presence.

Looking ahead, I hope that when Clark returns in the latter half of the season, Boston’s strong performance will shine even brighter with a full team on the floor. The Fever are eager for something to click, especially as they entered the year with championship aspirations.

Through their search for solutions this season, it’s become evident that Boston could be the driving force pushing them forward.