Juju Watkins, one of the top players in women’s college basketball, has been making waves not just with her performance on the court but also with her perspective on the game and its growing fan base. Whether or not you consider her the next big star, there’s no denying her immense talent. She’s widely regarded as one of the best prospects since Breanna Stewart, and her all-around game has drawn comparisons to some of the sport’s greatest.
Recently, Watkins spoke about the influx of new fans in women’s basketball, a topic that has sparked considerable discussion, especially within the WNBA community. During an interview with Fox News Digital, she acknowledged the challenges that come with increased attention.
“Sometimes it can be a bit of a headache,” she admitted. “Not everyone knows what they’re talking about, but at the end of the day, the fact that people are watching is a win for the sport.” Watkins expressed gratitude for the growing viewership, emphasizing that any attention—positive or negative—ultimately helps elevate women’s basketball.
When asked about embracing both supporters and critics, Watkins responded confidently. “Oh yeah, I love supporters, but I also love the haters. It’s all part of the game.
There will always be positive and negative aspects to it,” she said. This balanced mindset reflects maturity beyond her years, especially compared to some of the criticism new fans and players face from certain segments of the WNBA community.
Watkins also addressed some of the recent controversies surrounding Caitlin Clark, another standout player who has faced criticism despite her transformative impact on the game. While some, including the owner of the Atlanta Dream, have raised concerns about the media’s portrayal of players like Clark, Watkins took a different stance. “I honestly think she deserves every bit of recognition she’s getting. No one has shifted the trajectory of the sport as much as she has,” Watkins said.
While debates about race and media coverage continue to swirl, Watkins remains focused on what truly matters: the game itself. She’s quick to praise Clark’s contributions while also recognizing the talents of her peers in the sport’s rising generation, including players like Hannah Hidalgo, Angel Reese, and others from the stacked 2027 WNBA draft class.
Watkins’ comments reflect a broader shift in the landscape of women’s basketball. Unlike previous generations, today’s young stars are entering the league as celebrities, bolstered by brand deals and NIL opportunities.
This newfound visibility has removed some of the financial pressures older players once faced, allowing the younger generation to focus on growing the sport and their personal brands.
As the game continues to evolve, players like Juju Watkins are not only setting new standards on the court but also redefining how athletes engage with fans and media.
Her defense of Caitlin Clark and her optimism about the sport’s future highlight her leadership and commitment to the game. Whether or not she breaks scoring records, Watkins’ impact on basketball is already undeniable—and she’s only getting started.
