The WNBA is poised for an exciting season, commencing on May 8, and players are set to benefit significantly from a recently negotiated collective bargaining agreement. With every player receiving a salary increase, free agents now have the opportunity to sign record-breaking contracts. A prime example is Aliyah Boston, whose recent deal marks a historic moment for the league.
Historic Contract Extension for Aliyah Boston
Aliyah Boston, a three-time All-Star forward, has secured a groundbreaking four-year contract extension with the Indiana Fever, valued at $6.3 million. This deal represents the largest in WNBA history. In a selfless move, Boston agreed to a salary of $1 million for the 2026 season, less than the maximum $1.19 million she could have commanded, in order to enable her teammates, including Caitlin Clark, to benefit from higher salaries. Over the next three seasons, Boston’s earnings will account for 20% of the team’s salary cap.
Aliyah Boston in action. (Ian Maule/Getty Images)
The Rise of Boston and the Fever
Drafted first overall by the Fever in 2023, Boston quickly made her mark, winning the Rookie of the Year title in her debut season. The following year, she was joined by Caitlin Clark, the top pick in 2024, as they led the Fever alongside veteran guard Kelsey Mitchell to the WNBA semifinals.
Throughout her career, Boston has consistently delivered impressive performances, averaging 14.5 points, 8.5 rebounds, 3.0 assists, 1.1 steals, and 1.1 blocks per game while shooting 54.7% from the field. She has been named to the All-Star team every season since her entry into the league.
Recently, Boston received her first All-WNBA recognition, making the All-WNBA Second Team and also earning a spot on the All-Defensive Second Team. This accolade allows her to replace her initial contract with this new, lucrative agreement, putting her in position to secure a supermax deal a year earlier than anticipated.
With her record-setting contract, Boston aims to lead the Fever to championship success, a feat that has eluded the franchise since she was just ten years old.
John is a seasoned journalist at The Bothside News, specializing in balanced reporting across news, sports, business, and lifestyle. He believes in presenting multiple perspectives to help readers form informed opinions. His work embodies the publication’s philosophy that truth emerges from examining all sides of every story.
