Juju Watkins, the name dominating headlines and college basketball courts alike, has proven that her influence transcends the hardwood. From buzzer-beaters to boardrooms, the USC freshman sensation is redefining what it means to be an athlete in today’s world. Now, whispers of a groundbreaking partnership with Nike and her latest investment have fans and analysts buzzing yet again. The question isn’t just how she’s shaping basketball—it’s also how she’s changing the business of sports.

According to a recent episode of the podcast Good Game with Sarah Spain, Watkins revealed the first glimpse into her plans beyond the court. when host Sarah Spain teasingly congratulated Juju for her investment in Unrivaled and asked her about her future plans for the league.

To which, Watkins, known for her poise on and off the court, responded with characteristic confidence.

“Yes, yes, for sure,” she affirmed. “I’m just really committed to trying to grow the game as best as I can, and if I’m able to do that now, of course, that’s what I’m going to do. So I was super excited to be a part of this new wave. And you know, hopefully we’ll be playing in the league someday.”

The “new wave” she refers to is her involvement in Unrivaled, a project aimed at elevating women’s sports by giving athletes a platform to grow their personal brands and influence. As one of the youngest investors in this initiative, Watkins joins a growing list of players who are taking charge of their financial futures while still in college.

From court to corporation: Juju Watkins sparks buzz over rumored Nike deal and unstoppable legacy

Meanwhile, fans are also speculating about Watkins’ potential collaboration with Nike, a $116 billion sportswear titan. When asked about the rumored deal, Watkins played coy, saying, “I can’t really say yet, but I’m super excited for everything that’s to come. I think right now, the main focus is the team. So yeah, I’m just really locking in on what we’re doing here, and, uh, stuff will come along the way.”

Her words have done little to quell the excitement surrounding her connection to the brand. Nike’s market cap of $116.7 billion underscores its dominance in the global sports industry, and any partnership with Watkins who is currently the fastest player in the NCAA to reach 1000 points could signal a monumental step for both parties.

Despite her rising profile, the 6’2” guard remains focused on her team and game. As a key player for USC, Watkins who currently averages 24.7 points per game this season continues to face challenges from rising stars like Hannah Hidalgo, and yet manages to balance basketball and business in a way that inspires young athletes to dream bigger—on and off the court.

Watkins’ involvement with Unrivaled and her potential Nike deal symbolizes a seismic shift in how athletes approach their careers. No longer content with simply excelling in their sport, players like Watkins are leveraging their platforms to create lasting legacies.

In her own words, Watkins is “super excited for everything that’s to come.” And if the early signs are any indication, the basketball court might just be the beginning.