USC’s rising star, JuJu Watkins, is capturing attention both on and off the basketball court! Recently, she made headlines by signing a multi-year deal with Fanatics, marking a significant milestone as the first woman in college sports to secure such an agreement. This deal includes not just trading cards but also signed memorabilia, and it extends into her professional career in the WNBA. Let’s dive into the exciting details around JuJu’s impressive achievements and what they mean for the future of women’s sports.
JuJu’s Groundbreaking Deal with Fanatics
On March 14, 2025, JuJu, a standout player on the USC women’s basketball team, signed a multiyear contract with Fanatics. This collaboration is particularly momentous, as it represents a significant leap forward for women athletes in college sports. By becoming the first women’s college athlete to land an exclusive deal of this nature, JuJu is paving the way for future female players. With signed memorabilia and trading cards in the mix, this partnership could spark even greater interest in women’s basketball!
From Breaking Records to Big Dreams
Watkins isn’t just making waves with her deal; she is also breaking records on the court. Recently, she surpassed Caitlin Clark’s NCAA scoring record for points scored in a player’s first two seasons. JuJu’s successful run has positioned her as the second-highest scorer in women’s basketball history through two seasons. This impressive feat is certainly something to celebrate, especially as she heads into the equally exciting March Madness tournament.
Support from Fellow Star Caitlin Clark
As JuJu prepares for her next big challenge, she has received a wave of support from WNBA star Caitlin Clark. Although JuJu has not yet reached out to Caitlin, she expressed how much it means to receive her advice on managing the pressures of being a college athlete. This support highlights the camaraderie among female athletes, where they lift each other up and encourage one another to aim high.
Balancing Life as a Student-Athlete
While JuJu is making headlines, she still balances the demands of being a student. Between attending classes, practicing basketball, and engaging in business partnerships with major brands like Degree and Nike, her schedule is packed! But she makes time for relaxation, enjoying everyday activities like going to concerts and playing with her new French bulldog puppy.
Looking Ahead: March Madness and Beyond
With the NCAA March Madness tournament just around the corner, JuJu is focused on her team’s success. She has emphasized that while individual accomplishments are special, her priority is the USC team. As they gear up for the tournament, where they are considered contenders, fans and peers alike are rooting for JuJu to lead her team to victory.
How to Get Involved and Support Women’s Basketball
Following the rise of stars like JuJu Watkins is vital for supporting women’s sports. Fans can attend games, purchase merchandise, and spread the word about women’s basketball events. Engaging with local teams and promoting the incredible talent within women’s sports can help inspire the next generation of athletes.
Table of JuJu’s Achievements
| Achievement | Date | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Signed Deal with Fanatics | March 14, 2025 | First women’s college athlete to sign an exclusive deal. |
| Surpassed Scoring Record | March 2025 | Second-most points secured in NCAA women’s basketball history through two seasons. |
| March Madness Participation | March 2025 | Leading USC Trojans into the tournament. |
JuJu Watkins is not just an incredible athlete; she’s a trailblazer for women in sports. Her achievements are inspiring many and proving that with hard work and dedication, anyone can make their dreams come true.
