By Tiffany Williams –
Aliyah Boston, the standout player for the Indiana Fever, graced Worcester with her presence for a momentous occasion at Worcester Academy, where her exceptional career was celebrated with a jersey retirement ceremony. This significant event not only honored Boston’s individual achievements but also marked a milestone in the academy’s rich history.
Selected as the 1st overall pick in the 2023 WNBA Draft, Boston’s rise to stardom was further solidified when she received the coveted title of AP 2023 WNBA Rookie of the Year, earning this recognition through an impressive unanimous vote.
A proud alumnus of Worcester Academy, where she honed her skills and showcased her talent, Boston was a McDonald’s All-American and recognized three times as the Massachusetts Gatorade Player of the Year during her high school years.
During her junior year at Worcester Academy, Aliyah delivered an outstanding performance, averaging 21.2 points, 14.0 rebounds, and an impressive 6.2 blocks per game. She demonstrated her remarkable consistency by starting all 22 games of her sophomore season, where she recorded a double-double in each match.
Boston played a pivotal role in leading Worcester Academy to an impressive 24-1 record, culminating in her senior year with the team winning their second consecutive New England Prep School Athletic Council (NEPSAC) Class A championship. In her senior year, she averaged 17.3 points, 10.6 rebounds, and 3.2 blocks per game, further establishing herself as a dominant force in high school basketball.
Her accolades include being named NEPSAC Class A Player of the Year in both 2018 and 2019, as well as earning a spot on the NEPSAC Class A All-Star team in 2017, highlighting her exceptional skill and competitiveness during her time at Worcester Academy.
In her first two seasons in the WNBA, Boston has made her mark by participating in 80 games, accumulating a total of 2,485 minutes on the court. Over these seasons, she has scored an impressive 1,138 points, with 236 of those coming from offensive rebounds, complemented by 454 defensive rebounds. Additionally, Boston has tallied 215 assists, 88 steals, and recorded 99 blocks, showcasing her versatility and defensive prowess.
“This special event took place as we are celebrating the 50th anniversary of coeducation,” said Worcester Academy. “A fitting year to honor one of the most remarkable athletes to emerge from the Hilltop.”
Julie Berberian, Worcester Academy’s Director of Athletics, took a moment to reflect on Boston’s profound impact on the school community. “Aliyah, from the moment you stepped onto this campus, you not only represented Worcester Academy, you elevated it. Your skill, determination, and leadership set a new standard for what it means to wear the Worcester Academy uniform. You didn’t just play basketball, you left an incredible mark on this program and the entire community.”
The ceremony also attracted the attention of Indiana Fever’s Chief Operating Officer and General Manager, Amber Cox, who was present to honor Boston alongside video messages that were played from Fever Head Coach Stephanie White and the University of South Carolina Head Coach Dawn Staley, further underscoring the significance of the occasion.
Aliyah Boston has made history as the first athlete in Worcester Academy’s rich history to have her jersey retired.
Sports Insider Daily 