JuJu Watkins: The Rising Star of USC Women’s Basketball
JuJu Watkins has become a household name in college basketball after a record-breaking freshman season that propelled USC women’s basketball to the NCAA Elite Eight for the first time in three decades. Watkins, only 19 years old, has captured the attention and admiration of the sports world, establishing herself as not just a star at USC but a national sensation.
USC men’s basketball coach Eric Musselman, who was appointed as the Trojans’ head coach on April 4, highlighted Watkins’ remarkable impact since his arrival at the university. In an interview with Colin Cowherd on “The Herd,” Musselman praised Watkins’ influence and star power.
“First of all, she’s the biggest star on campus,” Musselman said. “I can tell you that. That’s super cool when it comes to women’s athletics that JuJu is a national brand right now.”
Watkins’ freshman year stats are nothing short of extraordinary. Averaging 27.1 points, 7.3 rebounds, and 3.3 assists per game, she trailed only Caitlin Clark in points per game nationwide. Musselman commended Watkins’ all-around capabilities and her performance under pressure.
“She can do everything,” Musselman noted. “She can draw free throws attempted, she can make threes, you talk about a player on a big stage as a freshman that could take her as far as she did. She’s got unbelievable body control, she can finish through contact, she can seek contact for free throws attempted, stretch the defense out with three-point shooting. Just had a phenomenal freshman year.”
Watkins’ versatility was on full display throughout the season. She led her team to the Elite Eight, scored over 900 points as a freshman—a first in college basketball history—and recorded 15 30-point games and nine double-doubles. Her exceptional performance earned her several prestigious awards, including the Pac-12 Freshman of the Year, USBWA National Freshman of the Year, All-American honors, and the Ann Meyers Drysdale Award, which recognizes the nation’s best shooting guard.
Watkins’ star power extends beyond the court, making her a significant figure in women’s athletics and a beacon of inspiration for aspiring athletes. As she continues her college career, the excitement and expectations surrounding her only grow, promising an even brighter future for USC women’s basketball.
