"Caitlin and Reese are Larry and Magic. JuJu Watkins is MJ": College hoops fans react to USC star's jersey in Naismith Hall of Fame 

USC Trojans sophomore JuJu Watkins appeared in a picture posing beside her USC jersey in the Naismith Hall of Fame.

In an Instagram post on Friday, Bleacher Report posted a carousel of images featuring Watkins alongside her USC jersey in a showglass. The honor, a recognition of her early dominance, ignited comparisons to some of basketball’s greatest legends.

Fans on Instagram were quick to react, likening Watkins to NBA legend Michael Jordan while drawing parallels between other standout college players.

"Caitlin and Reese are Larry and Magic. JuJu Watkins is MJ," a fan commented.

One fan comments on a post about JuJu Watkins (Image credit: Instagram/@bleacherreport)

Other fans in the comment section responded in agreement to the shared images of Watkins, placing her as the next generational talent.

Fans comment on Instagram post about JuJu Watkins (Image credit: Instagram/@bleacherreport)

Watkins, who entered USC as a five-star recruit in the nation, has lived up to expectations. She’s already showcased her all-around game, combining scoring, playmaking, and defensive prowess to dominate opponents. Her leadership and poise at such a young age have drawn inevitable comparisons to Jordan’s unparalleled influence on basketball.

The jersey placement at the Hall of Fame recognizes Watkins’ standout high school career and her seamless transition to college basketball.

While still in the early stages of her journey at USC, her performances have validated the hype surrounding her arrival.

JuJu Watkins opens up about the challenges of filming her docuseries "On the Rise"

Speaking on the podcast "Good Game with Sarah Spain," Watkins shared her mixed feelings about the filming process of her docuseries, "On the Rise: JuJu Watkins."

Her docuseries, produced by LeBron James’ Uninterrupted, gives fans an inside look at her life as she transitions from a high school hot prospect to a standout USC Trojans guard.

While the project is a source of pride for the 19-year-old, Watkins admitted that being the subject of a documentary has been a unique challenge.

“It’s definitely been an adjustment with the cameras being around,” Watkins said, adding, “One of the hardest parts is watching it back. It’s so cringey to me.”

Watkins’ candid admission reveals the vulnerability that comes with being in the spotlight, even for someone as composed as the WBCA 2024 Freshman of the Year.

The series doesn’t just showcase her basketball prowess but also shines a light into her life off the court. From her family moments to her connection with the community, "On the Rise" offers a holistic view of Watkins’ journey and values.

For her, the documentary is an opportunity to share more than her athletic achievements.

“It’s an insight into who I am, my values, and my story, because I take so much pride in it,” Watkins said.

Watkins’ rise to prominence has been nothing short of extraordinary. Averaging 24.7 points per game as a sophomore, she has helped elevate USC’s program, leading them to their first Elite Eight appearance in 30 years.