Aliyah Boston has done it again. For the third consecutive year, the Indiana Fever’s dominant center has been named a WNBA All-Star starter, cementing her status as one of the league’s brightest young stars. At just 24 years old, Boston continues to redefine excellence in the post, showcasing a blend of skill, intelligence, and leadership that makes her indispensable to her team and a fan favorite across the league. Her latest All-Star nod is a testament to her relentless work ethic, her impact on both ends of the floor, and her ability to shine even under immense pressure.
From the moment she entered the league as the No. 1 overall pick in 2023, Boston has been a force. Her rookie season was nothing short of spectacular, earning her Rookie of the Year honors while averaging a double-double and anchoring the Fever’s defense. She didn’t just meet expectations—she shattered them, proving that her collegiate dominance at South Carolina would translate seamlessly to the professional level. Now, in her second season, she has only elevated her game, refining her offensive repertoire while remaining one of the most formidable defensive presences in the WNBA.
What makes Boston’s All-Star starter selection so impressive is the consistency of her dominance. In a league stacked with elite frontcourt players—A’ja Wilson, Breanna Stewart, and Brittney Griner, to name a few—earning a starting spot three years in a row is a monumental achievement. It speaks to her ability to stand out in a crowded field, not just through raw talent but through her basketball IQ, her unselfish play, and her knack for making game-changing plays when her team needs them most.
Offensively, Boston has expanded her game beyond the traditional back-to-the-basket style of many centers. She’s developed a reliable mid-range jumper, improved her footwork in the paint, and become an exceptional passer out of double teams. Her chemistry with fellow Fever star Kelsey Mitchell has been a joy to watch, as the two have developed a seamless pick-and-roll partnership that keeps defenses scrambling. Boston’s ability to read defenses and make quick decisions has made her one of the most efficient scorers in the league, shooting at an impressive clip from the field while also getting to the free-throw line with regularity.
But where Boston truly separates herself is on the defensive end. She is a perennial Defensive Player of the Year candidate, using her combination of strength, timing, and instincts to disrupt opponents night after night. Her shot-blocking ability is elite, but it’s her positioning and ability to alter shots without fouling that make her so valuable. She anchors the Fever’s defense, communicating switches, closing out on shooters, and cleaning up mistakes with her rebounding. In an era where versatility is prized, Boston’s ability to guard multiple positions while protecting the rim at an elite level is a rare and invaluable skill.
Beyond her on-court production, Boston’s leadership has been instrumental in the Fever’s resurgence. After years of struggling near the bottom of the standings, Indiana is now a team on the rise, and much of that optimism stems from Boston’s presence. She leads by example, playing with a quiet intensity that demands respect from teammates and opponents alike. Her work ethic is legendary—whether it’s staying late after practice to work on her free throws or studying film to identify opponents’ tendencies, Boston’s dedication to her craft is unwavering. That professionalism has rubbed off on her teammates, helping to establish a culture of accountability and growth within the franchise.
The fan support behind Boston’s All-Star starter selection is also worth noting. The WNBA’s voting process includes fans, players, and media, and Boston’s ability to connect with audiences has played a significant role in her repeated honors. Her humility, engaging personality, and commitment to giving back to the community have made her one of the most beloved figures in the sport. Whether she’s interacting with young fans, advocating for social justice, or simply showing appreciation for those who support her, Boston understands the importance of using her platform for good. That connection with fans isn’t just a bonus—it’s a reflection of the kind of player and person she is.
Of course, Boston’s journey hasn’t been without challenges. The WNBA is a league where every night presents a new test, whether it’s facing down MVP-caliber opponents or adjusting to defensive schemes designed specifically to slow her down. There have been games where she’s been frustrated by physical defenses or forced to navigate foul trouble. But what’s remarkable about Boston is her ability to adapt. She studies the game with the precision of a veteran, learning from every possession and making the necessary adjustments. That growth mindset is why she’s been able to sustain such a high level of play so early in her career.
Looking ahead, Boston’s third All-Star start is just another milestone in what promises to be a legendary career. She’s already achieved so much—college national champion, Naismith Defensive Player of the Year, WNBA Rookie of the Year, and now a three-time All-Star starter—but it feels like she’s only scratching the surface. With the Fever continuing to build around her, the future is undeniably bright. The next steps? Leading Indiana to playoff contention, competing for championships, and perhaps even adding MVP or Defensive Player of the Year trophies to her collection.
For now, though, the focus is on celebrating another well-deserved All-Star honor. Boston’s selection is a reminder of how far she’s come and how much more she has to give. In a league filled with incredible talent, she has carved out her place as one of the very best, and she’s done it with a combination of skill, determination, and grace that makes her impossible to ignore. As she takes the court alongside the WNBA’s other brightest stars, one thing is certain: Aliyah Boston isn’t just a participant in this era of women’s basketball—she’s helping to define it.
The 2024 All-Star Game will be another showcase for her talents, another opportunity to remind the world why she belongs among the elite. And if her track record is any indication, she’ll make the most of it—just like she always does.
