Three-time WNBA All-Star Aliyah Boston has made headlines by signing a groundbreaking four-year contract extension with the Indiana Fever, valued at $6.3 million. This deal is a milestone, marking the largest total salary in WNBA history.
Boston signed this extension under a new rule from the league’s recent collective bargaining agreement. After receiving an All-WNBA selection, she was in a position to replace her expected salary for 2026, paving a quicker route to a maximum earning potential.
Amber Cox, the Fever’s general manager, praised Boston’s impact on the team. “Only in her fourth season, Aliyah is already an elite player. We’re excited to secure her future with us,” she stated. Cox emphasized that Boston has even more potential waiting to be unleashed.
Interestingly, Boston has agreed to take a bit less money upfront. She will earn $1 million in 2026, lower than the standard max deal of $1.19 million. This decision allows the Fever to allocate resources to other team members, highlighting her commitment to the team’s success.
“I’m super blessed for this opportunity and excited about our future,” Boston shared. Her enthusiasm reflects her investment in both her development and the team’s aspirations.
Since being drafted No. 1 by the Fever in 2023, Boston’s performance has been impressive. She has averaged 14.5 points, 8.5 rebounds, and 3.0 assists per game, with a striking shooting percentage of 54.7%. Her contributions were pivotal as the Fever made a surprising semifinal run in 2025, despite facing a slew of injuries.
The Fever are building a promising core around Boston, including 2024’s No. 1 pick Caitlin Clark and standout guard Kelsey Mitchell, who recently signed a one-year supermax deal to stay with the team.
Boston’s journey in the WNBA reflects broader trends within women’s sports, where increasing visibility and investment are helping to elevate the game. For instance, as of 2022, women’s sports viewership surged, with a report from Nielsen indicating a 25% increase in audience for women’s events. This momentum offers exciting possibilities for future stars like Boston.
In conclusion, Boston’s new contract isn’t just about the money; it’s a strong statement of her significance to the Fever and the growth of women’s basketball overall. For more insights on women’s sports, consider checking out reports from trusted sources like ESPN and the Women’s Sports Foundation.
