After a Stellar Season, JuJu Watkins Makes History at USC with AP Player of the Year Honors
JuJu Watkins has solidified her place in history as the standout sophomore guard for the USC Trojans. She became the first player in the program’s history to receive the AP Player of the Year award, marking yet another milestone in her remarkable sophomore season. This honor comes promptly after joining the ranks of USC icons Cheryl Miller and Lisa Leslie by earning the Naismith award.
Watkins has already been celebrated as the National Player of the Year by The Athletic, USBWA, and Sporting News. Her impressive season statistics speak volumes: she averaged 23.9 points, 6.8 rebounds, 3.4 assists, 2.2 steals, and 1.8 blocks per game. Her leadership propelled the Trojans to their first regular-season title since 1994, securing a top seed in the tournament, until her journey was halted by a torn ACL in the second round. Despite her injury, her legacy is cemented, not least with her three murals in downtown Los Angeles.
Recent Recognition and Praise
On receiving the prestigious AP Player of the Year award, Watkins, who was also instrumental in leading USC to its first Big Ten regular-season title in 31 years, received 29 out of 31 votes from the national media panel. Notre Dame’s Hannah Hidalgo was the only other player to receive votes, and both athletes were first-team AP All-Americans. Watkins is only the fourth sophomore ever to win this award, joining illustrious company like Courtney Paris, Maya Moore, and Breanna Stewart.
USC coach Lindsay Gottlieb expressed her pride, stating, “What’s significant about this award is that it highlights JuJu’s ability to elevate herself and her team in a year filled with talent.” Coach Gottlieb emphasized Watkins’ ability to make challenging plays look effortless and remarked on her status as a generational talent.
Impact Beyond the Court
Cori Close, AP Coach of the Year, praised Watkins’ contributions both on and off the court, particularly her commitment to underserved communities. “JuJu’s heart of service is as impressive as her basketball skills,” Close mentioned, underscoring the importance of Watkins’ community work.
Watkins consistently raised her performance against top-tier opponents. In matchups against AP top 10 teams, she averaged 26.2 points, 7.3 rebounds, and 2.4 blocks while maintaining a 35.4% shooting percentage from beyond the arc. “She performed her best when it mattered most,” Gottlieb noted.
A Rising Star Drawing Crowds
With her signature “JuJu bun” hairstyle, Watkins is not only a key player but also a significant draw for audiences, evidenced by an increase in home game attendance. Celebrities such as Snoop Dogg, Kevin Hart, and Michael B. Jordan are frequent sightseers, captivated by her magnetic presence both on and off the court. “It’s hard to miss Snoop Dogg in his custom JuJu jacket,” Gottlieb humorously remarked.
JuJu Watkins continues to make strides while staying true to her roots—a testament to her talent and dedication to the community.
