Indianapolis, IN – May 21, 2025
In a nail-biting WNBA matchup at Gainbridge Fieldhouse, Indiana Fever star Aliyah Boston delivered a standout performance, scoring 24 points and grabbing 10 rebounds in a tightly contested 91-90 loss to the Atlanta Dream. The game, part of the early 2025 WNBA season, showcased Boston’s growing dominance as one of the league’s premier big players and highlighted her critical role in the Fever’s push for a deeper playoff run this year.
Boston, the 2023 No. 1 overall draft pick, has been a cornerstone for the Fever since her rookie season. On Tuesday night, she proved once again why she’s considered a rising star in the WNBA. Shooting an efficient 9-for-13 from the field and 6-for-7 from the free-throw line, Boston was a force in the paint, adding four assists and two blocks to her impressive stat line. Her double-double performance kept Indiana in the game until the final seconds, despite the heartbreaking defeat.
A Game of Momentum Swings
The Fever entered the game with high expectations after a dominant 93-58 victory over the Chicago Sky in their season opener on May 17, 2025. That game saw Boston and teammate Caitlin Clark combine for a dynamic performance, with Clark recording a triple-double and Boston anchoring the defense. Against Atlanta, the Fever faced a tougher challenge, as the Dream’s balanced attack and clutch plays ultimately sealed the one-point victory.
The game was a back-and-forth affair, with both teams trading leads throughout. Boston’s impact was felt early, as she controlled the boards and converted high-percentage shots in the paint. With 1:21 left in the fourth quarter, her layup off a pass from Clark cut Atlanta’s lead to two points, igniting the home crowd. Later, with 21 seconds remaining, Boston went 1-for-2 from the free-throw line to give Indiana a slim 90-89 lead. However, Atlanta’s Rhyne Howard answered with two free throws to take a 91-90 advantage, and a missed shot by Fever veteran Natasha Howard in the final moments sealed the Dream’s victory.
Despite the loss, Boston’s performance was a bright spot for Indiana. Her ability to dominate both offensively and defensively underscored her importance to a Fever team looking to build on last season’s playoff appearance. Fans and analysts alike took to social media to praise her effort, with posts on X highlighting her 24 points, 10 rebounds, four assists, and two blocks as a testament to her all-around game.
Boston’s Evolution as a Star
Aliyah Boston’s journey in the WNBA has been one of steady growth. Selected first overall out of South Carolina in 2023, she quickly established herself as a reliable presence in the paint. Last season, she averaged 14.0 points and 8.9 rebounds per game, earning praise for her consistency and leadership. Her role as a mentor to rookie sensation Caitlin Clark also drew attention, with the two forming a formidable duo for the Fever.
In 2025, Boston appears to be taking her game to new heights. Her performance against Atlanta showed improved efficiency and confidence, particularly in her ability to create scoring opportunities and facilitate plays for her teammates. Analysts have noted her growing ability to draw defenders, opening up passing lanes for players like Clark and Kelsey Mitchell, who also scored 24 points in the game.
WNBA analyst Rosalina Lee, in a recent YouTube video, pointed out areas for improvement in Boston’s game, particularly her occasional struggles with layups. However, she also emphasized Boston’s critical role in Indiana’s offense, comparing her to NBA star Nikola Jokic for her ability to impact both ends of the floor. “Aliyah Boston is the backbone of this team,” Lee said. “She’s still shaking off some rust, but her presence in the paint is undeniable.”
Team Chemistry and Leadership
Boston’s contributions extend beyond her stat sheet. Her leadership on and off the court has been a stabilizing force for the Fever, especially as they integrate new players like veteran forwards DeWanna Bonner and Natasha Howard. The trio forms one of the WNBA’s most formidable frontlines, with Boston’s size and skill complementing the experience of her teammates.
Her camaraderie with Clark has also been a talking point. In the season opener against Chicago, Boston stepped in to de-escalate a heated moment between Clark and Sky star Angel Reese, earning a technical foul in the process. Clark later offered to cover Boston’s $200 fine, a gesture that highlighted their strong bond. “I appreciate AB having my back,” Clark said in a postgame press conference, underscoring Boston’s role as a team-first player.
Boston’s leadership was also evident in her response to a postgame confrontation during a preseason game against Atlanta on May 10. After a heated exchange with Dream forward Naz Hillmon, Boston addressed the incident calmly, emphasizing her focus on the game and team unity. Her ability to handle pressure, both on and off the court, has made her a fan favorite and a key figure in the Fever’s locker room.
A Bright Future for the Fever
The Fever’s 1-1 start to the 2025 season reflects their potential to compete with the WNBA’s elite. With Boston and Clark leading the way, alongside veterans like Bonner and Mitchell, Indiana is poised to make a strong push for the playoffs. The team’s next game, a rematch against Atlanta on May 22, offers a chance to even the score and build momentum.
Boston’s performance against the Dream also drew attention from high-profile fans. Rapper Plies, who gifted Boston a diamond necklace courtside on May 18, celebrated her rising stardom, posting on X about her impact on and off the court. The gesture was a full-circle moment for Boston, a former South Carolina Gamecock, whose alma mater continues to produce WNBA talent like 2025 draft pick Bree Hall, now her teammate in Indiana.
Looking Ahead
As the WNBA season progresses, all eyes will be on Aliyah Boston to see if she can maintain her dominant form. Her ability to deliver double-doubles, anchor the defense, and facilitate the offense makes her a cornerstone of the Fever’s aspirations. While the loss to Atlanta stung, Boston’s performance was a reminder of her potential to be among the league’s elite.
For fans looking to catch Boston and the Fever in action, their next game against the Dream is set for May 22 at 7 p.m. ET, broadcast on ESPN+. With Boston’s star power and the team’s growing chemistry, Indiana is ready to make waves in the 2025 WNBA season.
‘Must Know :- SAS: Rogue Heroes’ Season Two Delivers Intense WWII Special Forces Action
