Following the exit of Caitlin Clark to the WNBA, many believe that Juju Watkins is now the face of women’s college basketball. The guard had a fantastic freshman season at USC in 2023-24, leading the Trojans to the Pac-12 Tournament title and the Elite Eight in March Madness.
Juju Watkins also shattered the NCAA Division I freshman scoring record by accumulating 920 points, surpassing the previous mark of 898 set by Tina Hutchinson in the 1983-84 season.
Ahead of her sophomore season, She’s aware of the responsibility on her shoulders to keep women’s college basketball at a top level following the exit of Caitlin Clark.
“I think I’d be lying if I said I didn’t feel pressure sometimes,” Watkins said. “Just knowing the attention that’s on women’s basketball right now and trying to make sure that it doesn’t get lost.”
Juju Watkins credits those who came before her
Juju Watkins is touted to be the next big thing in women’s college basketball. Following her freshman season, a couple of analysts already see her matching the legacy of Clark in the landscape.
She gave credit to those who paved the way before her for the level she has reached in the game. Watkins acknowledges the influence of a host of top players, recognizing their contributions and the opportunities they’ve provided to maintain the excellence of women’s basketball.
“It’s just a testament to what Caitlin and Angel, Cheryl Miller and Candace Parker, big names like that have done,” Watkins said.
“It’s the product of them performing so well and dedicating their craft to the game. I mean, I’m just a product of that, and I’m excited to see what’s going to come for next season.”
Juju Watkins is not concerned about comparison
There has been a lot of comparison of Juju Watkins with a lot of past and present women’s college basketball stars since last season. However, the guard is unconcerned about the frenzy going on and is rather focused on the future in the landscape.
“I think that happens a lot in the women’s game,” Watkins said. “Constantly comparing other players and their success. But I don’t think anybody really pays attention to that. Good players can coexist in this space.”
With an average of 27.1 points, 7.3 rebounds and 3.3 assists per game last season, there’s a lot of expectation on Watkins in the 2024-25 season. She’s already overseeing the renaissance of the Trojans in women’s basketball, and it’s to be seen where she takes them
News
Caitlin Clark Strikes Back, Shoves Opponent In Chippy WNBA Game
Caitlin Clark and the Indiana Fever entered Wednesday’s game against the Washington Mystics on a positive note following their win over the WNBA-leading New York Liberty on Saturday. But, their matchup with Washington ended on a sour note. The Mystics…
The Online Community Is Confused By Caitlin Clark’s “Unsportsmanlike” Action Towards Julie Vanloo Of The Mystics In An Exciting WNBA Match
Caitlin Clark and the Indiana Fever entered Wednesday’s game against the Washington Mystics on a positive note following their win over the WNBA-leading New York Liberty on Saturday. But, their matchup with Washington ended on a sour note. The Mystics…
The Fever’s Caitlin Clark Shoved The Mystics’ Julie Vanloo In An Exciting WNBA Match – The Referee Judged Clark To Have Committed An Offensive Foul.
Caitlin Clark and the Indiana Fever entered Wednesday’s game against the Washington Mystics on a positive note following their win over the WNBA-leading New York Liberty on Saturday. But, their matchup with Washington ended on a sour note. The Mystics…
Nike Faces Trouble After Sha’Carri Richardson Controversy As Caitlin Clark’s Shoe Release Reflects Disrespect For A’ja Wilson
Nike has been in the spotlight recently due to the mixed reception of its new USA track and field uniform. Despite efforts to enhance the Olympic atmosphere, the brand has faced some disapproval. The brand is currently facing intense scrutiny…
The Online Community Is “Shocked” By Shaq’s Bold Statement – “I’d Rather Make No Money Than Work With LeBron—All He Does Is Whine And Cry!”
In an explosive revelation that’s set the sports world abuzz, Shaquille O’Neal has reportedly turned down a staggering $100 million opportunity to appear alongside LeBron James in a high-profile commercial. Shaq’s jaw-dropping refusal stems from his blunt criticism of LeBron’s…
Kim Mulkey Asked Brittney Griner To Keep Quiet About Her Sexuality So That Baylor’s Recruitment Wouldn’t Be Harmed. – The online community cannot sit still and demand that Kim Mulkey apologize for having “sexist” thoughts.
Baylor coach Kim Mulkey and Brittney Griner discuss dunking, during a news… Baylor coach Kim Mulkey and Brittney Griner discuss dunking, during a news conference in Des Moines, lowa, Sunday, March 25, 2012, the day before the team’s NCAA women’s…
End of content
No more pages to load