Aliyah Boston’s advice could shape Lauren Betts’ WNBA future

Christian Standal

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Aliyah Boston’s advice could shape Lauren Betts’ WNBA future image

Trevor Ruszkowski-Imagn Images

Lauren Betts already looks like a player built for the WNBA. At 6-foot-7, the UCLA star uses her size, strength, and touch around the basket to dominate college opponents on a nightly basis. But as the women’s game continues to evolve, Betts knows that being great near the rim may not be enough on its own. That’s where advice from Indiana Fever star Aliyah Boston could make a long-term difference.

The WNBA has been moving away from traditional post players who only score in the paint. Today’s top forwards, like A’ja Wilson and Napheesa Collier, can score at all three levels and stretch defenses with their shooting. Even more traditional bigs, including Boston herself, have worked to expand their range to stay effective in the modern game.

Betts is still developing that part of her skill set. She has attempted just one three-pointer this season, but she has been focusing on improving her mid-range shot. After UCLA’s win over Penn State, Betts shared that Boston had encouraged her to be confident taking shots away from the basket.

 

Betts said she spoke with Boston at a USA Basketball training camp and was surprised that the Fever star had watched her games. Boston’s message was simple but powerful: trust yourself. She told Betts not to worry about missed shots and to take open mid-range looks when they are available. Hearing that from someone she looks up to made a big impact.

That advice matters because Betts already checks many boxes for WNBA success. She is an efficient scorer inside, a strong rebounder, and an elite rim protector. Adding a reliable mid-range jumper and possibly extending her range further could take her game to another level and make her harder to defend at the next level.

 

Betts remains one of the top prospects in the upcoming WNBA Draft. Early in the season, she looked like a possible No. 1 overall pick, especially for teams in need of size and defense. While guards like Awa Fam and Azzi Fudd have entered the conversation, Betts’ value has not dropped. She is averaging 16.2 points, 8.1 rebounds, 3.1 assists, and 2.1 blocks per game, numbers that show her impact on both ends of the floor.

Where Betts lands in the draft may depend on team needs, but her talent is clear. With guidance from players like Aliyah Boston and continued growth in her shooting range, Lauren Betts has the tools to become much more than a dominant college center. She has the chance to be a complete WNBA star for years to come.

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Staff Writer