JuJu Watkins Makes History Investing in Pro Women’s Sports Team
In a groundbreaking move that really shows how women’s sports keep evolving, Southern California guard JuJu Watkins just became the first NCAA athlete to directly invest in a professional women’s sports team.
She’s joined the investor group for the NWSL expansion team, Boston Legacy FC. This isn’t just about money—it’s about pushing women’s sports forward and showing how much influence Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deals now have in college athletics.
At 20, Watkins joins an impressive crew of investors: WNBA player Aliyah Boston, Chicago Bears quarterback Caleb Williams, Olympic gold medalist Aly Raisman, and actress Elizabeth Banks. Watkins is helping set a new bar for women’s sports, and her move reflects a shift where top college athletes are looking past simple endorsements and jumping into equity-based investments.
The Significance of JuJu Watkins’ Investment
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JuJu Watkins’ investment in Boston Legacy FC is a big deal for women’s sports. She’s the first college athlete to invest in a pro team, and that’s a pretty bold move.
It’s not just financial—it’s a statement about what women can do in sports. Watkins wants to help create opportunities where female athletes can achieve, lead, and inspire.
Empowering Women Through Sports
Boston Legacy FC isn’t just another soccer team. It’s a platform that aims to help women excel and inspire the next generation.
Watkins believes in this mission. “Boston Legacy FC is creating a space for women to achieve, lead, and inspire others at the highest level,” she said, according to ESPN.
Boston Legacy owner Jennifer Epstein also pointed out how groundbreaking Watkins’ investment is, and what it could mean for the future of women’s sports.
A Star-Studded Investor Group
Watkins joins a pretty remarkable group of investors in Boston Legacy FC. Here’s who else is on board:
- Aliyah Boston – WNBA player for the Indiana Fever
- Caleb Williams – Chicago Bears quarterback
- Aly Raisman – Olympic gold medalist
- Elizabeth Banks – Actress
This lineup brings serious experience and visibility to the team. Having such high-profile figures involved just adds more momentum to women’s sports.
The Impact of NIL Deals
NIL deals have shaken up college sports, giving student-athletes real chances to cash in on their personal brands. Watkins’ investment in Boston Legacy FC is a great example of what’s possible.
On3 estimates her NIL valuation at $739,000, making her second only to LSU’s Flau’jae Johnson in women’s college basketball. She’s landed endorsement deals with Fanatics and Unrivaled, the new women’s 3-on-3 league featuring WNBA stars Napheesa Collier and Brianna Stewart.
Watkins’ Athletic Achievements
Watkins backs up her investment with some serious athletic credentials. As a sophomore, she helped her team win the Big Ten regular season championship.
She’s also collected a bunch of awards, including:
- Naismith College Player of the Year
- John R. Wooden Award
- AP Player of the Year
Even after an ACL injury, Watkins is expected to return to USC for the 2026-27 season. She’s got two years of eligibility left, and her determination keeps inspiring people in the sports world.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Boston Legacy FC
The NWSL is growing to 16 teams, with Boston Legacy FC and Denver Summit both set to start playing in 2026. Boston Legacy FC’s first season and home opener on March 14, 2026, are already creating buzz.
Watkins’ involvement just adds more excitement as the team gets ready for its debut.
The Broader Impact on Women’s Sports
Watkins’ investment in Boston Legacy FC marks a real step forward for women’s sports. It shows that financial opportunities for female athletes are growing, and that their impact is getting noticed.
More college athletes are starting to use their NIL deals to make investments that could change the sports industry. Isn’t it about time?
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Pioneering a New Era
Watkins made a bold move by investing in a professional sports franchise while still playing college ball. That’s not something you see every day.
This shift shows how college athletics is changing. Student-athletes aren’t just working on their own brands—they’re starting to influence the bigger picture.
Her investment says a lot about where women’s sports could go. It’s a strong reminder of why backing female athletes matters.
For more details on JuJu Watkins’ historic investment, you can check out the full article on Face2Face Africa.