In an exciting development for college athletics, USC women’s basketball star JuJu Watkins has made headlines by signing a groundbreaking multi-year deal with Fanatics, a prominent sports merchandise company. Officially announced on March 14, 2025, her deal marks a historic moment as she becomes the first women’s college athlete to enter into such an agreement. This significant milestone not only celebrates Watkins’ talents and hard work but also represents a major step forward in recognizing women in sports.
Breaking New Ground
The details of the deal are as impressive as the athlete herself. Not only will it include signed memorabilia and autographed trading cards, but it also encompasses her future career in the WNBA. This means that fans can look forward to exciting merchandise featuring JuJu, including her upcoming appearance on the 2025 Bowman University Chrome Basketball cards set to launch on April 3, 2025. Her cards will proudly showcase her in a USC Trojans uniform, making them a must-have for collectors and fans alike.
A Bright Future Ahead
While the specifics of the deal are exciting, the implications for JuJu’s professional career are equally thrilling. Even though Panini currently holds the WNBA trading card license, the deal with Fanatics allows JuJu’s brand to grow ahead of her potential transition to professional play. With Fanatics preparing to take over NBA trading cards later this year and extending to MLB and NFL rights in the next couple of years, JuJu’s card might become a collector’s item at just the right moment.
Support and Appreciation
Adding another layer to her historic journey, JuJu has garnered admiration and support from fellow athletes. WNBA star Caitlin Clark has reached out with encouragement, having herself played through immense pressure in college sports. JuJu, who has already surpassed Clark’s point totals through their sophomore seasons, appreciates the mentorship and advice Clark has shared regarding handling stardom and the fanfare that accompanies it. However, JuJu admits she hasn’t yet reached out personally to Clark, wanting to focus on her team success during the upcoming March Madness tournament.
Balancing Life as a College Athlete
Aside from basketball, JuJu Watkins is also managing her education and a burgeoning business portfolio, highlighting her skills beyond the court. Recently, she has made partnerships with well-known brands such as Nike and Degree, showcasing her ability to balance sports with her academics. Despite her impressive accomplishments, Watkins remains relatable, stating she enjoys normal college life, including downtime activities like watching popular TV shows or attending concerts.
March Madness on the Horizon
As JuJu prepares for her second run in the March Madness tournament, she continues to emphasize her focus on the team rather than individual accolades. This perspective has made her not only a talented player but also a valued teammate. The upcoming tournament presents an opportunity for her and her team to shine, and fans can’t wait to see the impact she will have.
JuJu’s Impact on Women’s Sports
The significance of JuJu Watkins’ deal with Fanatics extends beyond personal achievement—it’s a powerful statement about the growing recognition of women in sports. By breaking barriers and achieving success, athletes like JuJu help inspire future generations. Her story could motivate many young girls who aspire to play sports professionally, proving that with hard work and dedication, dreams can indeed come true.
Conclusion
With her historic deal and continued support from fellow athletes, JuJu Watkins is certainly making waves in the world of sports. As the basketball season heats up, all eyes will be on her during March Madness, and fans can look forward to celebrating this milestone along with her future successes in the WNBA.