When Aliyah Boston announced her decision to enter the 2023 WNBA Draft, she did it with full backing from someone who’d been by her side since day one—her college coach and mentor, Dawn Staley. In fact, Staley didn’t just support the decision; she made it clear to everyone: “I’m going to tell her to go.” Boston had already accomplished everything she set out to do in college—from dominating the SEC to winning a national title. But what kept her grounded wasn’t just trophies—it was the bond she shared with Staley, who became like a second mom. Still, it was time. And when she left? She didn’t just step into the WNBA—she stormed in.

Selected #1 overall in the 2023 draft by the Indiana Fever, Boston began writing her legacy all over again—this time on the professional stage. She didn’t take long to make headlines either. Remember her rookie record in WNBA history? At least 550 points and 325 rebounds in a season. That kind of dominance doesn’t go unnoticed. And now, Boston is heading into Year 3—and she’s absolutely buzzing with excitement.

To kick things off, she came in strong at Indiana Fever’s media day, suited up with confidence. But it wasn’t just her presence but special words on social media that turned heads! Well, it was praise from J’Wan Roberts. After Boston wrapped her media day duties, Roberts—Houston’s standout forward—posted a picture of her on his Instagram story and wrote: “Yaaaaa you a star.”

Well, it wasn’t coming from just anyone.

Born and raised in St. Thomas, both of them started their basketball journeys on Virginia Island’s courts, and they stood out. But, it was the tough decision to leave their island home as teenagers in pursuit of something bigger that bonded them well. Then, Roberts moved to Texas, eventually landing a spot on the University of Houston roster in 2019.

Boston, meanwhile took her talents to New England, where she blossomed and ultimately committed to South Carolina—a choice that proved perfect. She became a national name, helping the Gamecocks to an NCAA title in 2022 and solidifying her place in basketball history.

And just in case you’re wondering, this isn’t one-sided. Well, its not!

Just days before Roberts’ four-word praise lit up Boston’s social media, it was Aliyah Boston who first celebrated his shining moment. It all unfolded after Houston’s nail-biting 70-67 comeback win over Duke in the NCAA Final Four. And guess what?

It was none other than J’Wan Roberts who rose to the occasion when it mattered most. He delivered a career-defining performance with 11 points, 12 rebounds, and five assists, doing everything he could to keep Houston’s championship hopes alive. Like many others who were watching, Boston couldn’t help but take notice. She hopped on her official Instagram account and reposted a University of Houston graphic on her story, adding the caption: “You’re so tough omg. One more till the ring.”

She later echoed that excitement on X, writing: “That man!!” For two stars, this mutual celebration now plays out under the national spotlight, Boston leading in the pros, and Roberts fighting for college basketball glory. But these weren’t the only two exchanging pleasantries. Boston had someone else to gush over too.

Aliyah Boston shines light on Caitlin Clark’s progress

You remember the time Caitlin Clark appeared court side for the Iowa Big Ten game and her muscles went viral? Well, it reached Aliyah Boston, too. “I see on social media people like ‘Caitlin has such strong muscles.’ Don’t tell her I said that,” she admitted speaking about her teammate. In case you were wondering how that’s being put to use, the Fever big has an answer for that too.

“She gets in the paint, and she’s able to bully her way in and finish strong at the basket… I think her ability to stay downhill and really just stay on balance and score the ball, I think it’s going to be really great this year, too,” Boston added.

Caitlin Clark has made clear she believes this to be a championship caliber team. The title is what she’s absolutely aiming for. Defense, experience, reliable offense, she’s got them all around her. The front office has ensured to build that well. Now it’s the 2024 ROTY’s turn to answer with her game, and by the looks of it, she is taking it serious.