JuJu Watkins passes on Kobe Bryant & picks 9x All-Star as her NBA comparison: "He's too great"
JuJu Watkins is one of the biggest college stars after Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese departed to the WNBA. The USC Trojans guard put on a show in her first season at the collegiate level and fans are wondering how great she would be once she makes it to the pros.
Watkins' game has been compared to the late great Kobe Bryant. But during a recent conversation, the 19-year-old player picked a different player as her NBA comparison.
"Who is your NBA player comparison? Some have compared your game to Kobe Bryant's," one reporter asked Watkins.
"Kobe, I can't say Kobe. He's too great. I get Paul George sometimes a lot and that's just like the best compliment ever, so yeah, I'll say Paul," Watkins responded.
Kobe Bryant was a huge fan of women's basketball and he always tried to help the younger generations and the players competing in the WNBA. He developed a close relationship with Sabrina Ionescu before his tragic death and was training his daughter Gianna to become a professional player too.
Bryant's game was very aggressive and methodical at the same time, creating a lot of trouble for opponents. His footwork was something to behold, as well as his desire to win and do whatever it took to reach the goal.
As for Paul George, he's a smoother player, who has a delicate touch to the ball but can be aggressive when needed. George is a terrific scorer, but not at the level of Bryant.
JuJu Watkins possesses a unique combination of athleticism, speed and power, which helped her average 27.1 points per game in her freshman season. She has a gentle touch too and can create her own shot and become a spot-up, which explains why she compares herself to Paul George.
JuJu Watkins names her candidate to win WNBA Rookie of the Year award
While she gets ready to face her sophomore season at USC, JuJu Watkins is making public appearances and sharing her thoughts on current WNBA matters.
When it comes to the heated Rookie of the Year race, the guard picked Angel Reese as her candidate, saying that she's been 'killing it'. Watkins was speaking during last week's ESPYs ceremony.
"As of right now, I got Angel. She's been killing it," Watkins told GQ Sports.
The WNBA is heading into a break right now, with Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese both playing at a high level. The ROY race will resume after the Olympics and both stars will try to confirm that they're the rightful winner.