"Good job": Flau'jae Johnson’s mom joins fans to appreciate $576k NIL-valued JuJu Watkins as USC star spreads Christmas cheer

Flau'jae Johnson's mom, Kia Brooks, praised JuJu Watkins for her community work during the Christmas season. Like other college basketball stars, Watkins partnered with some of her endorsement brands to gift goodies and other gear to children

In collaboration with Nike, Chipotle, Mielle Organics, NYX Professional Makeup, and Jamal "MaL-Ski" McCoy, Watkins posted highlights from the charity event on Instagram on Thursday. She distributed athletic attire, basketball shoes and meals.

"Spreading holiday joy! 🥰 special thanks to our partners @nike @mielleorganics @chipotle @nyxcosmetics @djmalski 🫶🏽," the caption read.

Fans stormed the comment section to appreciate the $576,000 NIL-valued USC Trojans point guard's efforts. Among those impressed was Flau'jae Johnson's mom.

"Great Job!!" Kia Brooks wrote.

Kia Brooks' comment on JuJu Watkins' post

In addition to being Flau'jae Johnson's mother, Kia Brooks is also her manager. As the owner of TFNA Entertainment & Sports Management, she helps Johnson secure significant NIL deals. Brooks also spearheaded Johnson's deal with Puma, which was her first major college NIL partnership.

Brooks' guidance has been key in helping Flau'jae Johnson solidify a dual career as a basketball player and rapper.

JuJu Watkins' take on WNBA draft eligibility criteria

JuJu Watkins gave her two cents on the WNBA's eligibility criteria for the draft during the Dec. 19 episode of the "Good Game With Sarah Spain" podcast. The current WNBA rule requires players to be at least 22 years old, unlike the NBA, where players can enter the draft after one year of college.

Watkins believes college is the perfect segue for aspiring professional players, as it gives them the opportunity to build their brand.

However, acknowledging that not every player has the following and star power, she said there should be an option for female players to declare early.

"I definitely think we should have the option," Watkins said. "There's just been such a growth in college basketball where it's like, why would you want to leave? Because you're able to have that experience and build your brand here in college as well."

"I would definitely say we should have the option but I think college is a way to prepare us for the pros as well. So, I don't know. It's a touchy subject, but I'm for it."

Under current WNBA rules, Watkins will be draft-eligible for the 2027 WNBA talent pool. It will also increase her chances of representing Team USA in the 2028 Olympics, something she expressed interest in earlier this year.