In sports, the scoreboard might decide the winner, but it’s often the unseen traditions that shape the game. From LeBron James’ signature chalk toss before tip-off to Stephen Curry’s tunnel three-pointer, pregame rituals are woven into the fabric of competition.
Now, the WNBA has its own spotlight moment after Indiana Fever star Aliyah Boston opened up about a touching pregame tradition with Caitlin Clark.
How Did Aliyah Boston’s Pregame Ritual With Caitlin Clark Begin?
Boston’s revelation came during the latest episode of the “Post Moves with Candace Parker & Aliyah Boston” podcast. Towards the end of the podcast, host Candace Parker began reading fan-submitted questions.
One inquiry was aimed directly at Boston, asking about the story behind her now-famous hugging ritual with Clark and when it all began. Boston was quick to respond.
“I mean, it really just started one game where we gave each other a hug, and she was like, ‘You’re going to be amazing because you are amazing.’ I said it back, and we’ve just done it every game.”
“Even though she’s been out for a while, I make sure I get my pregame hug. I think it’s just nice to give that confidence to each other before every game, and we’ve continued to do that,” said Boston during the podcast.
According to Boston, the hug from Clark serves as a genuine confidence booster before stepping onto the court. The chemistry between the two was on full display during this year’s WNBA Commissioner’s Cup. A video went viral across social media showing Boston and Clark embracing on the Fever bench and exchanging a few quiet words.
“Your going to be amazing because you are amazing” – AB and CC pregame 🥹 pic.twitter.com/KnfOIYpP9z
— ericaf455 (@ericaf455) July 2, 2025
The result of that heartfelt moment? Boston went on to deliver a dominant double-double with 12 points and 11 rebounds, leading Indiana to a 74-59 victory over the Minnesota Lynx to claim the Commissioner’s Cup title.
The Fever celebrate after winning the 2025 Commissioner’s Cup 👏 pic.twitter.com/dPcxDms64O
— Yahoo Sports (@YahooSports) July 2, 2025
What Other Pregame Rituals Help Caitlin Clark Stay Focused?
While Boston’s ritual happens before tip-off, Clark has a different kind of personal habit. She uses hers to unwind and handle pressure rather than to prepare for the game.
In an interview with Glamour during All-Star weekend, Clark revealed that one of her favorite stress-relief rituals is rewatching Disney classics. This simple joy helps her reset mentally in the middle of a demanding season.
The 23-year-old also loves journaling before each game, as this habit helps her stay focused.
“It makes me really intentional about what I want to accomplish and is a good reset if I’m feeling nervous or anxious about the game, to kind of wipe that away,” said Clark during the interview.
The 2025 season itself hasn’t been easy for Clark. She has battled multiple injuries including a left quadriceps strain and a groin issue which have forced her to miss significant time.
So far, she’s averaging 16.5 points, 8.8 assists, and five rebounds per game, but on Tuesday, she missed her 11th consecutive game due to the ongoing groin problem.
“She’s been able to get a little bit more in her full-court running, with all her body weight. It’s really building up from doing minimal to then building some endurance to do longer periods of time. She’s been able to do a little bit more on the court in terms of how she moves, but not into practice yet,” said Fever head coach Stephanie White regarding Clark.
Meanwhile, Boston’s averaging 15.1 points, 8.2 rebounds, and 3.6 assists per game and has helped the Fever maintain an 18-15 record and remain firmly in the playoff picture.
The Fever’s next challenge comes on August 15, when they face the Washington Mystics. If history is any indication, expect Boston and Clark to share their pregame hug.
