“She has perfect skin already”: Fans adore JuJu Watkins as USC star steps in the world of cosmetics
JuJu Watkins is all set to be the face of college basketball in the 2024-25 season. However, the USC guard has also signed to be the face of makeup brand Nyx Cosmetics. The company announced the news on Tuesday via an Instagram post.
"Big moment! So excited for @jujubballin to be the first college basketball player stepping into the world of beauty with a major campaign. Let’s make history together! 💄✨ #Makethemlook," the caption read.
Fans in the comments were excited about the collaboration and praised Watkins.
“She has perfect skin already,” one fan wrote.
"A collab I'd definitely support," wrote another.
"Giving glamour," a user commented.
Here are more fan reactions:
With JuJu Watkins as the face, the brand hopes to "empower the loud, proud and authentic self-expression of female athletes." In a statement, the USC guard spoke of the new partnership, saying:
"I am thrilled to partner with NYX Professional Makeup to help further amplify their mission to inspire beauty enthusiasts around the world and embrace their own personal style.
"NYX is all about breaking boundaries and celebrating individuality, which resonates deeply with me both as an athlete and as a person. I'm looking forward to working with a brand that embraces creativity and encourages everyone to feel confident in their own skin."
This has not been the only major business move from Watkins, as she recently signed "one of the richest shoe endorsement deals" in women’s basketball with Nike, according to ESPN. The partnership first began in 2022 and is set to extend over the next few years.
JuJu Watkins also signed an NIL deal with Gatorade earlier this month. She is the third college athlete to join the brand after Paige Bueckers and Caitlin Clark.
JuJu Watkins set to lead USC to another great season
Building off the Elite Eight run last season, JuJu Watkins and the USC Trojans are expected to enjoy another remarkable season with a potential championship in the looks. With the conference change, the guard is also expected to be the face of the Big Ten after Caitlin Clark left for the WNBA.
However, Watkins is more concentrated on her team and its progress this season.
"I don't really think about that narrative too much," Watkins said. "I think the main goal is just trying to win and navigate this new space that we are in. I'm just excited to experience this new atmosphere.
"A lot of different teams that are really strong and powerful. So I think my main focus is just getting prepped for this season and gel with my team."
The USC Trojans will begin their season on Nov. 4 against Ole Miss.
Also read: “Such an adjustment from high school to college”: JuJu Watkins talks about successful freshman year with USC