Trojans HC resonates with Juju Watkins and uses Caitlin Clark example to make a bold NIL claim
JuJu Watkins is considered one of the most popular names in women's college basketball as she has been nothing short of sensational in her two-year stint with the USC Trojans.
As her stardom continues to grow, Watkins recently said that the WNBA should allow prospects the option to leave college early. During Wednesday's episode of "Good Game with Sarah Spain," Watkins shared her sentiments on the heavily-discussed matter.
"I definitely think we should have the option," Watkins said. "There's just been such a growth in college basketball where it's like, why would you want to leave? Because you're able to have that experience and build your brand here in college as well. I would definitely say we should have the option but I think college is a way to prepare us for the pros as well."
The second-year guard was accompanied by Trojans coach Lindsay Gottlieb and she agreed with her star player while using former Iowa sensation Caitlin Clark as an example.
"If you look at someone like Caitlin Clark, the platform of women's college basketball remains bigger, the eyes on the game remain bigger," Gottlieb said. "So, the deals that she gets coming into the W(NBA) and the financial power she has is greater because of the platform she had those last two years in college.
"If she had left after her sophomore year, she would have been ready, basketball-wise, but she wouldn't have brought what she brings."
There is no doubt that Watkins is already looking like a WNBA-ready player with how she has led the Trojans. This season, she is averaging 24.8 points, 5.8 rebounds, 3.8 assists and 2.4 steals per game. The No. 7-ranked USC Trojans are 11-1.
Gottlieb has Watkins' back and their relationship will likely remain the same even after she leaves the program. For now, they will look to finish the year strong with a win against the No. 20-ranked Michigan Wolverines on Saturday.
JuJu Watkins can match up to Caitlin Clark in the WNBA eventually
While Caitlin Clark may have never won an NCAA national championship, she has captivated basketball fans with her ability to score from all three levels. This has since translated into the WNBA in her debut season as she broke several league records and won the Rookie of the Year award.
Given Watkins' smooth offensive game, she will remain a fan favorite donning the USC jersey as she can only declare for the draft in 2027, per the WNBA's eligibility rules.