JuJu Watkins aims to carry forward Cheryl Miller's USC legacy

JuJu Watkins has a vision for carrying forward USC’s basketball legacy. Growing up in Los Angeles, the sophomore guard has long admired Trojans greats like Cheryl Miller and hopes to emulate this in her collegiate journey.

Inspired by Miller’s achievements, Watkins sees the legendary forward as the benchmark for success.

“Seeing their banners in the gym, that’s just so much motivation in itself to realize that’s the standard,” she told Boardroom TV's Vinciane Ngomsi on Tuesday (Timestamp: 6:04). “I hope that the team is just able to continue that legacy and bring some more banners.”

Miller left an indelible mark on USC’s women’s basketball history. She captured national championships in 1983 and 1984 and won the Naismith Player of the Year award three times.

In her four seasons, Miller averaged 23.6 points, 12.0 rebounds, 3.2 assists, 3.6 steals and 2.5 blocks per game.

What else did JuJu Watkins say other than her desire to carry forward Cheryl Miller's legacy?

Alongside her personal goals, JuJu Watkins, who grew up watching the LA Sparks, has found immense support in her USC teammates, notably her closest friend, India Otto. She played five seasons for the Trojans and was part of last year’s March Madness roster.

Otto recently took on the role of coordinator of player engagement with the school.

“True friendships form organically, and they aren’t one-sided. We are there for one another,” Otto said. “She is my best friend in the whole world and has truly become my sister; blood couldn’t make us any closer. … Seeing the humility that JuJu possesses day in and day out, the maturity, gratitude, poise, and wisdom at such a young age is inspiring.

"The way she lives life is beautifully done. She also doesn’t suffer fools. She is kind and gracious, but she is aware of what goes on around her.”

For the upcoming season, Watkins will be joined by returning forward Rayah Marshall as well as transfers Kiki Iriafen and Talia von Oelhoffen.

The team’s talent and depth have earned USC a No. 3 ranking ranking in the AP women’s basketball preseason poll.

USC’s season opener will take the team beyond the traditional home court as the Trojans will face No. 20-seed Ole Miss at the Adidas Arena in Paris on Monday.

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