JuJu Watkins to the NBA? One historic head coach thinks it can happen
This statement has sparked an interesting conversation
JuJu Watkins on the court for USC.LAPRESSE
In a statement that has sparked widespread debate, former NBA coach George Karl made a bold assertion about USC women’s basketball star JuJu Watkins. Karl, known for his successful and sometimes controversial coaching career in the NBA, took to social media to claim that Watkins possesses the talent, athleticism, and skill to compete with men in the NBA.
Watkins, a standout player for the USC Trojans, has been turning heads with her exceptional performances on the court. Averaging 27.1 points, 7.3 rebounds, and 3.3 assists per game, she is widely regarded as one of the top players in women’s college basketball.
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Karl’s comments, however, have ignited a heated discussion. “JuJu Watkins can play with the men in the NBA,” he posted, emphasizing her size, athleticism, and competitive drive. He went on to suggest that Watkins might be an even better prospect than Caitlin Clark, the WNBA Rookie of the Year. This comparison has only added fuel to the fire.
Fans and analysts weigh in on the feasibility of such a crossover
Critics of Karl’s statement argue that the physicality and skill level required in the men’s game are significantly different from those in the women’s game. They point out the challenges Watkins would face in competing against seasoned NBA players.
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Supporters, on the other hand, applaud Karl for recognizing Watkins’ exceptional talent and for challenging conventional boundaries. Watkins herself has remained focused on her game, letting her performance on the court speak volumes.
As she continues to lead the Trojans through a successful season, her dedication and prowess are evident to all who watch her play. The debate has brought attention to the broader conversation about gender and sports. While the idea of a female athlete transitioning to the NBA remains controversial, Karl’s comments have opened the door for discussions about the capabilities of top female athletes and the potential for greater inclusivity in professional sports.
Cameron Brink’s major career announcement ‘sparks’ excitement around the WNBA
Brink‘s rookie season was cut short due to injury
After starring as the anchor of the Stanford Cardinal, Cameron Brink became the #2 overall selection in the 2024 WNBA Draft — one spot behind Caitlin Clark. Now the centerpiece of the Los Angeles Sparks‘ rebuild, Brink began her rookie season in fine form for a growing, maturing team with a championship history.
But in a cruel twist of fate, Brink’s rookie season in the WNBA ended prematurely due to a torn ACL in her left knee. Brink continues to rehabilitate the injury six months after she sustained it, but exciting news about her future has come to light that promises to alter the course of her nascent pro career.
Brink to join Unrivaled
The offseason Unrivaled league begins next month in Miami, an opportunity for WNBA stars like Breanna Stewart and Napheesa Collier to continue competing in the league’s lengthy offseason. It was confimed Tuesday that Brink has become the 3-on-3 league’s newest member, signing a multi-season contract that will see her take the court for the Lunar Owls in 2026.
Brink’s new teammates in the offseason league include star guards Natasha Cloud and Skylar Diggins-Smith, in addition to reigning Defensive Player of the Year Collier and reigning All-Star Game MVP Allisha Gray. Even though she won’t take the court for another year, Brink has revealed to People magazine that a conversation with her godbrother — one Stephen Curry — helped her come to a decision.
“He thinks it’s a great idea and he knows I love the round three basketball,” Brink explained.
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Though Brink should be ready for the start of the 2025 WNBA season — the league’s longest ever, with a 44-game schedule — she believes that joining Unrivaled will make her a better basketball player, allowing her to hone her skills as the Sparks continue to build toward title contention.
“It’s just a really great way to train in a different way and build up your skill, not playing five-on-five,” Brink told People. “It’s just going to be completely different and I think it’s really going to aid people with their
