Top-seeded Phantom BC will move forward in the Unrivaled postseason without one of its biggest stars. Aliyah Boston has been ruled out for the remainder of the playoffs after suffering a right lower-extremity injury. The announcement comes at a critical time, as Phantom prepares for its semifinal matchup in New York.
Boston played a pivotal role in securing Phantom’s No. 1 seed. The team earned a bye into the semifinals and is set to face sixth-seeded Vinyl. Throughout the season, Boston was a dominant presence on both ends of the court, averaging 18.9 points, 9.7 rebounds, and 2.1 blocks per game. Her defensive impact earned her the league’s Defensive Player of the Year honor, underscoring just how significant her absence will be.
The loss is compounded by the continued absence of Dana Evans, who has appeared in just one game this season. To help fill the void, Phantom will turn to Aziaha James and Makayla Timpson. Both players are expected to step into larger roles as the team looks to maintain its championship aspirations without two key contributors.
Beyond her Unrivaled campaign, Boston’s injury also raises questions about upcoming international competition. She was recently named to the U.S. women’s national team roster for the FIBA World Cup qualifying tournament in Puerto Rico later this month, with a training camp scheduled in Miami beforehand. It remains to be seen how this setback could impact her availability, but for now, Phantom must regroup and press on without one of the league’s most influential talents.
