JuJu Watkins-USC NIL Amount, Net Worth, Player Information
JuJu Watkins-USC
JuJu Watkins, a standout guard for the USC Trojans, has quickly made a name for herself in college basketball.
As the number one recruit in her class, she not only brought her talents from Sierra Canyon School in Los Angeles but also delivered an unforgettable debut with 32 points and 5 assists against Ohio State.
During her first season, Watkins shattered records, becoming the all-time leading scorer among freshmen in NCAA Division I history.
Despite USC’s loss to UConn in the Elite Eight, she continued to be a dominant figure on the court, earning First Team All-American honors and setting a USC single-season record with 241 free throws made.
Her success extends to international play, where she won gold medals with Team USA at the 2022 FIBA U17 World Cup and the 2021 FIBA Americas U16 Championship.
Watkins is poised for another stellar season at USC, further cementing her status as a rising star in women’s college basketball.
Who Is JuJu Watkins?
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JuJu Watkins, whose full name is Judea Skies Watkins, is a standout college basketball player for the USC Trojans.
Born on July 15, 2005, in Los Angeles, she showed early promise at Sierra Canyon High School.
Watkins led Sierra Canyon to numerous victories, earning titles like the Gatorade National Girls Basketball Player of the Year and playing in the McDonald’s All-American game.
Joining the USC Women’s Basketball team for the 2023-24 season, Watkins quickly made her mark. She finished her freshman year as the highest-scoring freshman in NCAA Division I history, netting 920 points.
Her impact wasn’t just about scoring. Watkins also impressed with her versatility, recording multiple double-doubles in points and rebounds. She ranks fourth all-time among Pac-12 players for points scored in a season.
In the Pac-12 Tournament, JuJu helped USC to its first Elite Eight appearance since 1994. She also earned spots on the All-Pac-12 team and received numerous accolades including Pac-12 Freshman of the Year and Wooden Award All-American honors.
The freshman guard demonstrated her defensive skills with numerous steals and highlighted her shooting prowess, boasting notable percentages in three-point shots and free throws. All these made JuJu Watkins a player to watch for USC and beyond.
How Much Is JuJu Watkins Making In NIL Money?
JuJu Watkins is quickly becoming one of the top earners in college sports through Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deals.
Watkins, a standout for the USC Trojans, has signed several lucrative agreements. Among her notable deals, she holds a significant contract with NerdWallet.
A recent report estimates her total NIL valuation at $555,000. This figure includes various endorsements and sponsorships from high-profile brands.
In March 2024, her NIL deal was valued at $200,000. Since then, it has increased significantly due to new partnerships.
Key Deals:
- NerdWallet: Major financial brand
- House of Victory: USC athletics sponsor
- Fletcher Jones Motors: America’s No. 1 Mercedes-Benz Center
Watkins’s deals are not limited to just these; she also features in commercials for growth and moisture brands, bringing her further into the limelight.
Estimated Earnings from NIL Deals:
- Basketball performance and ranking: $555,000
- Commercials and endorsements: Varied but substantial
These partnerships not only boost her financial standing but also increase her visibility off the court.
Brands She’s Working With:
- NerdWallet
- Fletcher Jones Motors
- House of Victory
Each partnership adds to her growing portfolio, making her one of the highest earners among college athletes today.
What Is JuJu Watkins’ Net Worth?
JuJu Watkins, the young basketball sensation, has accumulated considerable wealth early in her career.
According to reports, her net worth is estimated to be between $600,000 and $800,000. This figure represents the various income streams she has secured, including her NIL deals and endorsements.
Breakdown of Income Sources:
- NIL Deal Valuation: As of March 2024, her NIL deal is worth $200,000.
- Represented by Klutch Sports Group: This representation has helped boost her market presence.
- Endorsements: Watkins promotes brands like @drinkpoppi, which she mentioned on her Instagram page earlier this year.
Social Media Influence:
Watkins also has a significant social media following. She boasts 434,000 followers on Instagram which increases her marketability and attracts more endorsement deals.
Achievements:
She has made a name for herself both on and off the court, earning accolades like the Gatorade National Girls Basketball Player of the Year and winning gold medals with the United States at the 2022 FIBA Under-17 World Cup.
These elements collectively contribute to JuJu Watkins’ growing net worth and influence in the world of basketball.
What Is JuJu Watkins’ WNBA Draft Prospects?
JuJu Watkins is a standout player at USC and one of the brightest stars in women’s college basketball. Her journey in the sport has been remarkable, accumulating accolades such as being the nation’s No. 1 recruit and a two-time gold medalist with the USA Basketball Women’s U-17 team.
Age and Eligibility:
Watkins, currently 18, who will turn 19 in July, is not yet eligible for the WNBA draft. According to eligibility rules, she will be eligible in 2027. This timeline aligns with her expected graduation from USC.
Potential Impact in the WNBA:
Watkins has the skill set to be an MVP contender in the WNBA. Her scoring ability, combined with her defensive prowess, makes her a complete player. Teams eyeing top talent for a rebuild or to solidify their roster will undoubtedly consider her.
Media Exposure and Visibility:
Watkins’ potential transition to the WNBA is highly anticipated. The Los Angeles Times and other media outlets have been keeping a close watch on her development, highlighting her performances and impact on the court.
Learning from the Best:
Playing under a seasoned coaching staff at USC, Watkins has the advantage of learning advanced strategies and techniques, which will be crucial for her professional career. She is expected to spend the next few years honing her skills and preparing for the WNBA.
Fan Excitement:
College basketball fans are eagerly awaiting her draft entry. Her journey from a top recruit to a college star and future WNBA player captures the imagination of current and future fans of women’s basketball.
Who Manages JuJu Watkins?
JuJu Watkins, the standout player for USC, is managed by a combination of professionals and influential figures in her basketball journey.
Lindsay Gottlieb, head coach of the USC Trojans women’s basketball team, has a pivotal role in Watkins’ development. Gottlieb’s experience and leadership guide Watkins through her collegiate career.
Watkins is also supported by family members who help manage her off-court decisions and endorsements. Being an emerging star, her family’s role is crucial for maintaining focus on both academics and athletics.
USC’s athletic department provides additional support, including public relations, marketing strategies, and academic advising. This comprehensive support system ensures Watkins remains balanced and prepared for future challenges.
Below is a brief overview:
Role | Entity |
---|---|
Head Coach | Lindsay Gottlieb |
Family Support | Watkins’ family |
Athletic Department | USC Athletic Department Staff |
This multi-faceted support system plays a critical role in the growth and success of JuJu Watkins, both on and off the court.
What Is JuJu Watkins’ Social Following?
JuJu Watkins has quickly become a prominent figure in women’s basketball, and her social media following reflects her rising star status.
She frequently shares updates and highlights from her games on platforms such as Instagram and Twitter.
Instagram: As of 2024, JuJu has amassed over 500,000 followers. Her Instagram features a mix of game highlights, training sessions, and personal moments that engage her audience.
Twitter: On Twitter, JuJu has a following of around 200,000 followers. She uses the platform to interact with fans, share thoughts on games, and post updates.
Her social media presence is remarkably engaging, providing followers with a glimpse into her life on and off the court.
In interviews, JuJu has credited her growing social media presence to the support of LeBron James. His mentorship and public endorsements have given her additional visibility.
Social Media Breakdown:
- Instagram: 500,000 followers
- Twitter: 200,000 followers
Her influence extends beyond just numbers. JuJu effectively uses her platforms to inspire young athletes, promote women’s basketball, and share her journey.
With a dynamic and active social media strategy, she connects with fans and creates a supportive community around her.
Her digital presence is a testament to her authenticity and dedication to the sport, allowing her to inspire a new generation of basketball players.
Player Comparisons
When discussing JuJu Watkins’ early success at USC, it’s crucial to compare her stats and impact to other notable players.
JuJu Watkins has made a significant mark with her scoring ability. In just her first season, she scored an impressive 810 points over 30 games, averaging 27.0 points per game.
This puts her ahead of many notable freshmen.
Caitlin Clark had a great start at Iowa, known for her sharp shooting and playmaking. Clark’s average points per game were slightly lower during her freshman year, indicating Watkins is on a strong trajectory.
Paige Bueckers, another standout at UConn, also had an impactful freshman season. Bueckers’ versatility and leadership were key for her team, making her a tough benchmark for Watkins.
Angel Reese and Cameron Brink both brought different skills to their teams at LSU and Stanford, respectively. Reese’s rebounding and Brink’s defensive prowess highlight areas where Watkins might focus on improving.
Comparing Lisa Leslie and Rayah Marshall from USC history, Watkins’ early scoring record suggests she could reach similar legendary status if she maintains her current pace.
McKenzie Forbes, representing Stanford, adds another layer to the conversation with her all-around game. Watching how Watkins matches up against peers like Forbes in conference play will be telling.
Some players like Kayla Padilla and Taylor Bigby from other programs also bring unique talents that highlight the diverse range of skills in women’s college basketball.
In USC’s rich history, players like Tina Hutchinson, Cherie Nelson, and Paula McGee have set high standards. Watkins’ current performance places her on a path to potentially eclipse these legends if her development continues.
What Is JuJu Watkins’ Business Prospects Post College?
JuJu Watkins has a bright future in both sports and business. As an outstanding basketball player, her marketability is high.
Endorsements are likely a major part of her business prospects. With her impressive performance at USC, companies will be eager to associate their brands with her success.
Social Media Influence also plays a significant role. Watkins’ growing online presence makes her an attractive figure for marketing campaigns, extending her influence beyond the court.
Merchandise and Apparel: The potential for personalized merchandise is strong. Whether it’s branded apparel or exclusive product lines, her fans would support such ventures enthusiastically.
Professional Basketball Career: Beyond endorsements, her professional career will open more doors. With her skillset, she’s likely to enter the WNBA, attracting further business opportunities.
Community Engagement: Watkins could leverage her prominence for philanthropic efforts, which in turn, build her brand even more.
Potential Business Ventures
- Endorsements: Sports brands, fitness products, fashion lines.
- Social Media Sponsorships: Paid partnerships, sponsored content.
- Personal Brand Merchandising: Clothing lines, sports gear.
- Public Speaking and Appearances: Camps, clinics, motivational speaking.
- Philanthropy: Initiatives supporting youth in sports, educational programs.
JuJu Watkins is set to transition from a college star to a business-savvy professional, with numerous avenues to explore and capitalize on. More insights about her historic start can be found on Yahoo Sports.