JuJu Watkins Emerges as Basketball’s Next Superstar

The 19-year-old USC standout is drawing comparisons to legends like Michael Jordan and is poised to transform women’s basketball.

JuJu Watkins, a sophomore at USC, is being hailed as a generational talent, with Carmelo Anthony dubbing her the 'Michael Jordan' of women’s basketball.
Watkins led USC to its best season in 40 years, including an Elite Eight finish, and set multiple records in her freshman year, including becoming the fourth-fastest player to reach 1,000 career points.
Her dominance on the court has drawn praise from NBA and WNBA stars, with LeBron James, Candace Parker, and others highlighting her talent, poise, and competitive drive.
Watkins has already secured high-profile NIL deals with Nike and Gatorade, starred in commercials, and is the subject of an upcoming NBC/Peacock docuseries, solidifying her cultural impact beyond the game.
With a strengthened USC roster and Watkins as the centerpiece, expectations are high for her continued growth and eventual WNBA career, where she is projected to be a franchise-altering player.