USC standout JuJu Watkins has reportedly finalized “one of the most lucrative shoe endorsement deals in women’s basketball.”
In a report by Shams Charania of ESPN, it was revealed that the Trojans guard has signed a multiyear contract extension with Nike. Watkins initially partnered with the brand in October 2022 while in her senior year of high school.
JuJu Watkins Made an Impact in Her Freshman Year
Watkins dominated as the top prospect in the 2023 class, and her freshman season at SoCal confirmed the excitement around her. She averaged 27.1 points per game, ranking her second nationwide, just behind Iowa Hawkeyes guard Caitlin Clark. Her impressive scoring led to a total of 920 points last season, breaking the record for the most points scored by a freshman in NCAA Division I women’s basketball history. Watkins’ performance was instrumental in helping the Trojans reach the NCAA tournament’s Elite Eight for the first time since 1984.
In recognition of her outstanding freshman season, she earned the title of Pac-12 Freshman of the Year and was awarded “Best Breakthrough Athlete” at the 2024 ESPYs.
As the new season approaches, head coach Lindsay Gottlieb reflected on JuJu Watkins’ strong work ethic and its significance for her team’s development.
“She’s incredible to be around every day,” said Gottlieb. “When your top player exhibits such dedication and cares deeply for the program and her teammates, it fosters something remarkable,” she added. “I believe that Big Ten fan bases and rivals will be thrilled because she elevates the game with her intensity.”
With the significant contract extension and being named Big Ten and Associated Press preseason Player of the Year, expectations are understandably high for the upcoming sophomore.
