In the world of women’s basketball, where rising stars are rare and precious, Juju Watkins already stands out. As the league celebrates the arrival of Caitlin Clark, another prodigy is rapidly emerging: Juju Watkins. But who is this young player already garnering such praise? And why is she considered the future of the WNBA just a year after Clark’s draft?
Early Life in the Spotlight
Born in 2005 in Los Angeles, Juju Watkins grew up in a city where basketball is more than just a sport. With parents who were passionate about the game, she was immersed in the basketball world from a young age. Even as a child, Watkins displayed an uncanny ability to dominate the court. By age 15, she was already a national star at Sierra Canyon High School, where she played alongside Bronny James, LeBron James’ son. But beyond her impressive stats, it was her basketball IQ and natural leadership that caught everyone’s attention.
Watkins quickly made a name for herself on the national stage. In 2022, she was named Gatorade Player of the Year, becoming the first player to win this title in California since Candace Parker. These accolades helped secure her a spot on Team USA, where she contributed to several gold medal wins in international junior competitions.
A Perfect Blend of Style
What sets Juju Watkins apart from her peers is her ability to excel in every aspect of the game. Standing at 6’2”, she has the perfect size to dominate both inside and outside. Her game is a lethal combination of power and finesse. She can post up opponents in the paint while also shooting three-pointers with surgical precision. But what makes her even more dangerous is her court vision and passing ability. Her style is already being compared to NBA players like Kevin Durant or Kawhi Leonard, two other stars who hail from Los Angeles.
On February 2, 2024, Juju Watkins dropped a staggering 51 points against Stanford, one of the top NCAA teams. Imagine a young player, barely out of high school, already in full “domination” mode. That night, there was no stopping her—driving to the basket, mid-range shots, free throws—she made everything. The most impressive part? Her maturity on the court. Watkins didn’t just score; she controlled the game and set the tempo. Stanford had no answer. It was a performance that signaled what’s to come: the WNBA has been put on notice.
The NBA Connection
Speaking of the NBA, it’s impossible to talk about Juju Watkins without mentioning her ties to the big league. While the WNBA is its own entity, it’s clear that the NBA is keeping a close eye on this young prodigy. The NBA’s influence on her game is undeniable, and she’s already forged relationships with several male stars. LeBron James, a mentor to many young talents, has never hidden his admiration for her. Knowing that LeBron rarely praises young players, this says a lot about Watkins’ potential.
She has also garnered the attention of Los Angeles Sparks star Nneka Ogwumike, who has taken the young player under her wing. This kind of support and mentorship is crucial for a talent like Juju, who is on the verge of exploding onto the professional scene. Some analysts even claim that if Watkins were eligible for the NBA draft, she wouldn’t go unnoticed by the scouts.
Transitioning to the WNBA: A Mere Formality?
With all the hype surrounding her, it’s easy to forget that Juju Watkins has yet to make her WNBA debut. However, based on her current performances, there’s little doubt that her transition to the league will be seamless. While the leap from college basketball to the WNBA is never easy, Watkins already seems equipped to handle the challenge. Her dominance in high school and immediate impact in the NCAA are just previews of what she can accomplish as a professional.
Comparing the stats of Juju Watkins and Caitlin Clark, Watkins boasts overall superior numbers, especially in points, rebounds, and defensive efficiency. However, Clark stands out with her shooting accuracy, particularly from long range, where her three-point shooting remains formidable. Despite her youth, Watkins showcases an impressive versatility that more than compensates for this difference, placing her among the most complete players in the game. To see more.
Experts predict that Watkins could not only be the top pick in the draft but also revolutionize the way women’s basketball is played and perceived. Like LeBron James or Kobe Bryant, she has that rare ability to elevate her teammates’ play while shining individually.
What Lies Ahead for Juju Watkins
It’s still early to say exactly where Juju Watkins will rank in WNBA history, but one thing is clear: she has all the ingredients to become a legend. With a college career still ahead of her, followed by a likely dominance in the WNBA, she has the potential to become one of the greatest players in women’s basketball history. Everyone sees her potential—even Slam Magazine!
For now, all we can do is watch and eagerly await her professional debut. In any case, Juju Watkins is already much more than a rising star—she is the future of women’s basketball, a player destined to redefine the standards of the WNBA. And if you don’t know her name yet, it’s time to get familiar because she’s only going to grow in stature and influence.
