JuJu Watkins Signs NIL Deal! What This Means for Women's Basketball
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Unrivaled, the groundbreaking women's 3-on-3 basketball league co-founded by WNBA stars Napheesa Collier and Breanna Stewart, is making waves again. The league announced Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deals with a stellar roster of college basketball players, further solidifying its commitment to elevating the women's game.
Among the impressive list of athletes is JuJu Watkins, the sensational USC Trojan. Watkins, along with other top talents from UCLA, Texas, Iowa State, UConn, LSU, Notre Dame, Florida State, TCU, and Michigan, will join Unrivaled in this innovative initiative. While the specific financial details of the NIL deals remain undisclosed, the move underscores Unrivaled's dedication to supporting and empowering female athletes.
Luke Cooper, President of Basketball Operations for Unrivaled, emphasized the league's mission in a statement: "Investing in elite women's basketball talent is central to Unrivaled's mission. This transformational, first-of-its-kind initiative brings together the best of the best and reflects our deep commitment to elevating the women's game and holistically supporting athletes."
This announcement follows Unrivaled's successful inaugural season, which saw Rose BC, led by team captain Chelsea Gray, claim the championship title. The league is gearing up for its second season, scheduled to tip off in early 2026. The addition of these college stars through NIL deals promises to bring even more excitement and talent to the court.
What does this mean for JuJu Watkins and other college stars?
These NIL deals provide significant opportunities for college athletes like JuJu Watkins. They allow these players to earn compensation for their name, image, and likeness while still maintaining their college eligibility. This is a game-changer in collegiate athletics, empowering athletes to capitalize on their talent and popularity.
The Future of Women's Basketball
Unrivaled's commitment to NIL deals and its focus on providing a platform for elite female athletes signals a bright future for women's basketball. The league's innovative approach is attracting top talent and generating excitement around the sport, paving the way for continued growth and recognition.
- The league's first-ever champion last season was Rose BC.
- The second season of Unrivaled is set for early 2026.