Who is Juju Watkins?
Judea Skies Juju Watkins, born on July 15, 2005, is a dynamic American college basketball player who has quickly risen to prominence as a standout guard for the USC Trojans in the Big Ten Conference. Hailing from Los Angeles, California, Watkins has been making headlines with her explosive talent, unmatched versatility, and ability to dominate the court. Her father, Phil Handy, who serves as an assistant coach for the Los Angeles Lakers, played a pivotal role in shaping her early basketball career. With a family legacy in sports and a natural knack for the game, Juju has become a household name among basketball enthusiasts.
Early Education and Basketball Roots
Watkins attended prestigious institutions such as Windward School and Sierra Canyon School, both located in her hometown of Los Angeles. These schools not only provided her with a strong academic foundation but also nurtured her basketball skills under the guidance of top-tier coaches. From a young age, Juju exhibited an extraordinary talent for basketball, which only grew stronger with time. Her dedication to the sport and her ability to balance academics with athletics set her apart from her peers, paving the way for her eventual college basketball career.
The Knee Injury That Stunned the Basketball World
On March 24, 2025, during USC's March Madness game against Mississippi State in the second round of the NCAA Women's Tournament, Juju Watkins suffered a devastating knee injury. The moment she went down, clutching her knee in agony, sent shockwaves through the basketball community. Fans, teammates, and analysts alike were left heartbroken as they watched one of the most promising young talents in college basketball sidelined by a torn ACL. This injury not only derailed her team's championship aspirations but also raised concerns about her future in the sport.
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The Latest Update on Juju Watkins's Injury
As the dust settled, the USC women's basketball program released an official statement confirming the severity of Juju's injury—a torn ACL. While this is undoubtedly a setback, Watkins has been working tirelessly with her medical team to ensure a full recovery. Her resilience and determination have inspired many, and there is no doubt that she will return stronger than ever. Fans around the country are rallying behind her, offering their support and encouragement as she embarks on the long road to recovery.
A Stellar Sophomore Season Cut Short
Before her injury, Juju Watkins was having an extraordinary sophomore season. She averaged an impressive 23.9 points, 6.8 rebounds, 3.4 assists, 2.2 blocks, and 1.8 steals per game, showcasing her versatility and dominance on the court. As the leader of the No. 1-seeded USC Trojans in the NCAA Tournament, Watkins was poised to take her team deep into the championship run. Her electrifying performances had already cemented her as one of the top players in college basketball, earning her numerous accolades and a growing fanbase.
Juju Watkins's Net Worth and Endorsement Deals
Beyond her on-court achievements, Juju Watkins has also made significant strides in the business world of sports. As a renowned women's basketball player, she has secured endorsement deals with prominent brands, further increasing her net worth. Earlier in her career, she signed with Klutch Sports Group for NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) opportunities, allowing her to leverage her growing popularity. In October 2022, she inked a deal with Nike, another major NIL partnership. With these lucrative deals and her continued success, Juju's net worth has soared to approximately $1.5 million, proving that her impact extends far beyond the court.
A Legacy in the Making
From her early days in Los Angeles to her current status as a star player at USC, Juju Watkins has left an indelible mark on the world of basketball. Her freshman year was nothing short of remarkable, with an average of 27.1 points per game. As a sophomore, she shattered records and redefined what it means to be a dominant force in college basketball. Her performance in the Big Ten Tournament, particularly her 29-point effort in the championship game, surpassed even the legendary Caitlin Clark's scoring record, solidifying her place among the greats.
Looking Ahead: Juju Watkins's Future in Basketball
Despite the setback of her ACL injury, Juju Watkins's future remains bright. Her talent, work ethic, and passion for the game ensure that she will continue to inspire and amaze fans around the world. With a supportive team, dedicated coaching staff, and an unwavering spirit, Watkins is destined for greatness. Whether it's leading the USC Trojans to a national championship or embarking on a professional career in the WNBA, there is no doubt that Juju Watkins will leave a lasting legacy in the world of basketball.
