‘It’s been a process’ – College basketball’s $576K supernova JuJu Watkins is following in the footsteps of Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese
The women’s game has found its new star.
There wasn’t much question as to who the next great women’s college basketball player would be, but after both Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese went off to the pro’s, there was still a sliver of doubt.
3
Watkins has helped carry the torch for women’s college basketball from its previous starsCredit: GettyConsider that sliver of doubt obliterated.
Consider the shoes of Clark and Reese filled.
And then some.
It’s JuJu Watkins’ world now and we’re all just living in it.
READ MORE BASKETBALLComing off a historic freshman campaign, in which she set numerous records, was both the National Freshman of the Year and a unanimous first-team All-American, averaging 27.1 points, 7.3 rebounds, 3.3 assists, and 2.3 steals per game, Watkins has her USC Trojans back in the spotlight.
Fresh off leading the Trojans to their first Elite Eight appearance in 30 years, the sophomore sensation has followed it up with a stellar second season.
Except this time, she isn’t just thinking Elite Eight.
Watkins wants to win the whole damn thing.
“We definitely have the goal of the Final Four, a national championship,” Watkins told Nicole Auerbach of NBC Sports.
“We’re not afraid to voice that because it holds everybody accountable.
3
Watkins has been as advertised in her second year at Southern CaliforniaCredit: Getty”We’re really aware of our potential and how far we can go, and it’s just a matter of harnessing that ability every day and coming into the gym with a championship mindset.”
Watkins is the star and face of the sport.
There are other amazing and ultra-talented players, such as Connecticut’s Paige Bueckers, or Notre Dame’s Hannah Hidalgo, but Watkins is a class above.
And with that, comes the responsibility of balancing superstardom, especially in a city that is filled with stars.
“It’s been a process,” Watkins said.
“But my main concern is my performance and continuing to get better. It’s about my own standards.”
Caitlin Clark joins Lebron James and Kevin Durant as Nike reward WNBA star with signature shoe
With the fame, has also come the dollar signs.
According to On3’s NIL Valuation, Watkins NIL value is at $576K.
She is partners with enormous brands such as Gatorade and Nike.
Watkins has led the sixth-ranked Trojans to a 21-2 record, currently good for second in the Big Ten, behind only cross-town rival UCLA.
3
Watkins is looking to end UCLA’s undefeated seasonCredit: GettyThe Bruins are a perfect 23-0.
On Thursday night, Watkins will lead her squad against the undefeated gals from the west side.
Read More on talkSPORTIt is the first of two matchups against the Bruins.
And Watkins’ moment to shine.
