Who is JuJu Watkins?
Judea “JuJu” Skies Watkins, born July 15, 2005, is an American college basketball player for the USC Trojans in the Big Ten Conference. Widely regarded as one of the top recruits of her generation, Watkins dominated high school basketball at Windward School and Sierra Canyon School in Los Angeles, earning the No. 1 ranking in her class by ESPN.
Her freshman year at USC (2023-24) was record-breaking—she:
✅ Scored 32 points in her collegiate debut against Ohio State, setting a USC record.
✅ Averaged 27.1 points per game, ranking second in NCAA Division I scoring.
✅ Set the NCAA Division I freshman scoring record with 920 points.
✅ Broke the USC single-game scoring record with a career-high 51 points against Stanford.
As she entered her sophomore season, Watkins was named Big Ten Preseason Player of the Year, continuing her dominance on the court.
Beyond college basketball, she has been a standout for Team USA, winning gold medals at the FIBA U16 Americas Championship and U17 World Cup, where she earned MVP honors.
Meet JuJu Watkins’ Parents: Sari and Robert Neal-Watkins
JuJu Watkins is the youngest daughter of Sari and Robert Neal-Watkins, both of whom come from athletic backgrounds.
Sari Neal-Watkins: Track and Field Star
- JuJu’s mother, Sari, was a standout track and field athlete during her college years.
- She originally envisioned a tennis career for JuJu, inspired by her older daughters’ participation in the sport.
- Despite JuJu choosing basketball, Sari has remained one of her biggest supporters throughout her journey.
Robert Neal-Watkins: Former College Football Player & Coach
- JuJu’s father, Robert, played college football and later helped train JuJu in basketball from a young age.
- His coaching and mentorship were instrumental in shaping her work ethic, skills, and discipline.
- He continues to play an active role in her development as she ascends in her basketball career.
A Family Rooted in Community
The Watkins family is deeply connected to their community, particularly through JuJu’s grandfather, Theodore Watkins Sr., who:
✅ Founded the Watts Labor Community Action Committee
✅ Worked to improve living conditions in the Watts neighborhood of Los Angeles
JuJu’s humility, discipline, and passion for basketball stem from her family’s legacy of hard work and community service.
JuJu Watkins’ Basketball Career: A Record-Breaking Journey
High School & College Basketball Success
JuJu Watkins dominated at both Windward School and Sierra Canyon School, becoming the top-ranked high school prospect in the country.
At USC, she made an immediate impact, shattering records in her freshman season:
🏀 NCAA D-I freshman scoring record – 920 points
🏀 USC single-game scoring record – 51 points vs. Stanford
🏀 Averaged 27.1 points, 7.3 rebounds, and 3.3 assists per game
🏀 Unanimous First-Team All-American selection
🏀 Winner of the Ann Meyers Drysdale Award (Nation’s Top Shooting Guard)
In her sophomore season, she led USC to the Elite Eight, marking the program’s deepest NCAA Tournament run in 30 years.
Beyond College: A Rising Superstar
- Signed one of the richest shoe endorsement deals in women’s basketball history.
- Won gold medals with Team USA at the FIBA U16 Americas Championship and U17 World Cup.
Conclusion
JuJu Watkins’ journey to basketball stardom is fueled by the unwavering support of her parents, Sari and Robert Neal-Watkins. Their athletic background, mentorship, and encouragement have helped her rise to the top of women’s college basketball.
With her record-breaking performances, leadership, and growing influence, Watkins is poised to become one of the greatest players of her generation. 🚀🏀
