LSU's Flau'jae Johnson and USC's JuJu Watkins etch their names in SI's list of 50 Most Influential Sports Figures
After garnering 58k views on their collaborative "Best of Both Worlds" podcast episode, Flau'jae Johnson and JuJu Watkins mounted their names in the history books. Johnson, the LSU guard and Watkins, her USC Trojans counterpart, were named in Sports Illustrated's list of 50 most influential figures in sports.
Watkins was listed at No. 28, recognized for her Nike deal out of high school and reigniting the University of Southern California athletic standards. Meanwhile, Flau'jae Johnson's acknowledgment came through her music career, deal with Jay-Z's Roc Nation and championship with the Tigers in 2023.
In her first college season with the Trojans last year, JuJu Watkins broke the all-time freshman scoring record by posting 920 points.
She averaged 27.1 points, 7.3 rebounds, 3.3 assists, 2.3 steals and 1.6 blocks throughout the season. Had the Trojans not fallen to Paige Bueckers' UConn in the NCAA tourney, Watkins could have touched the 1000-point mark.
Meanwhile, Flau'jae Johnson has elevated her stock to the next level this summer. The hooper-turned-rapper dropped her first album on July 28, including a song with Lil Wayne. As Johnson and Wayne shot for a music video, Johnson performed at the ESPY and WNBA All-Star events while being introduced to BET's first culture class.
Flau'jae Johnson and JuJu Watkins are set up to succeed next season
Despite her role in LSU's championship run, the coming junior year will be the most integral for Johnson. As Angel Reese transitioned to the WNBA, the Tigers' go-to point guard Hailey Van Lith exited the program, transferring to the TCU Horned Frogs.
That puts Flau'jae Johnson in a position to showcase her craft. Despite her musical endeavors, she has been dedicating hours each day to tend to matters of the court. The LSU Tigers' guard situation provides her with ample opportunities to succeed and solidify her WNBA chances before her senior year.
Meanwhile, JuJu Watkins, who scored a 29-point and 10-rebound double in the loss to the Huskies, sees dependable pieces around her this year. Kiki Iriafen and Talia von Oelfhoffen bring experience to the roster.
Moreover, freshman names Vivian Iwuchukwu, Aaliyah Gayles and Kennedy Smith showcase a promise to not only be great complimenting players but to also grip Watkins' role whenever she leaps to the WNBA.