Juju Watkins gives a controversial response when crediting the WNBA's success

Juju Watkins has quickly become a name synonymous with basketball excellence. As a standout player for USC, she is already making waves in her sophomore year of college.

With record-breaking performances and comparisons to basketball legends, Watkins is cementing her place as a future star of the WNBA. But when asked about the league's rising popularity, the young phenom offered a take that stirred some conversation.

In a recent interview with Forbes, Watkins reflected on the WNBA's growth and the players who have paved the way. While many might credit Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese for the league's increased visibility, Watkins gave the nod to someone else-her idol, reigning MVP A'ja Wilson.

"Yeah, I'm a big A'ja Wilson fan," Watkins said, making it clear who she believes has been instrumental in the league's success. "So I'm more of a player person, not really teams. But, you know, I love my LA Sparks being from LA. But I'm a big A'ja fan. Just the way she's so dominant on the floor is really inspiring."

Watkins stopped short of mentioning Clark or Reese, both of whom have become household names for their fierce rivalry and impact on women's basketball. Instead, her focus remained on Wilson and the league's broader growth.

"And just to see the growth in women's basketball, it's something to really look forward to as I continue this journey. My goal is just to continue to push the game forward and play to the best of my abilities."

A Shared iration

The iration between A'ja Wilson and Juju Watkins isn't one-sided. The two have shared moments of mutual respect, such as their interaction at the ESPYs. While Watkins is inspired by Wilson's dominance, her rise is also drawing comparisons to another star-Caitlin Clark.

When asked about these comparisons, Watkins addressed them with grace. "I would say I just do my best to be myself and play my way," she said after landing a State Farm sponsorship deal similar to the one Clark held during her college career.

Despite the comparisons, Watkins insists she doesn't let them define her. "I don't really think too much about the comparisons or the pressure, but I would say I just go out there and try to have fun, do what I do and continue to work hard. I think that's my mentality always."

Watkins is on a clear trajectory to greatness. With her scoring abilities drawing parallels to some of the best in the game, including Carmelo Anthony and even Michael Jordan, she's destined to leave a mark on women's basketball.

For now, she remains focused on leading the Women of Troy to success, balancing her growing fame with her commitment to her team.

Her journey, while unique, is a testament to the ongoing evolution of women's basketball-and the stars who continue to push it forward. Whether it's A'ja Wilson, Caitlin Clark, or Juju Watkins herself, the future of the sport has never looked brighter.