USC Trojans star JuJu Watkins is currently being hyped as the upcoming WNBA sensation. The 19-year-old has been compared to Indiana Fever guard Caitlin Clark, who was named 2024 Rookie of the Year and has been credited for bringing new fans to the league.
After becoming State Farmās second NIL signing since partnering with the Indiana Fever guard, Watkins isnāt letting the comparisons get to her head. āI would say I just do my best to be myself and play my way,ā Watkins said to Athlon Sports.
āI donāt really think too much about the comparisons or the pressure, but I would say I just go out there and try to have fun, do what I do and continue to work hard. I think thatās my mentality always,ā she explained.
JuJu Watkins looks on (Steph Chambers/Getty Images)
Watkins has emerged as one of the top players in college basketball, averaging 22 points, 6.8 rebounds, 4.8 assists, 3.4 steals, and 2.6 blocks per game in 2024. She recently surpassed Clarkās record for fastest Power Five player to reach 1,000 points, highlighting her incredible scoring ability and versatility.
Watkins: The next big thing in the WNBA?
Watkins has garnered praise from some of the biggest names in basketball. She has trained with NBA superstars James Harden and Kevin Durant, as well as WNBA standout Chelsea Gray. Notably, she became the first high school athlete to sign with Klutch Sports, the agency representing LeBron James.
see also
WNBA News: Indiana Fever announces Stephanie White's coaching staff
An anonymous WNBA talent evaluator told ESPNās Alexa Phillippou, āYou could be looking at a multiple MVP winner. Sheās going to carry a franchise. Besides Caitlin, sheās definitely the next most exciting prospect. ā¦ Thatās the one youāre waiting for.ā
Watkinsā versatility is evident in her ability to score, pass, and defend at an elite level. Her clutch performances and leadership qualities have made her a fan favorite. As she continues to grow and develop, she has the potential to become one of the WNBAās next superstars.
