JuJu Watkins drops 1 word to hype up USC teammate Kiki Iriafen’s November recap

USC Trojans JuJu Watkins hyped up teammate Kiki Iriafen on Instagram after Iriafen did a recap of her November performance with the Trojans.

JuJu Watkins joined USC in 2023 as she was ranked No. 1 recruit in her class and set the NCAA Division I freshman scoring record. At the same time, Iriafren is a forward who joined the Trojans this year as a senior after moving from Stanford.

In an Instagram post on Thursday, Iriafen highlighted top moments, with Watkins hyping her up in the comment section. Watkins expressed her appreciation for Iriafen’s ability in a reel she captioned:

“November”

@jujubballin comment on Instagram

After Watkins had hyped her up, WNBA star Cameron Brink dropped a fire and heart emoji with other fans quick to praise the USC senior in the comment section.

@cameronbrink22 comment on Instagram

JuJu Watkins has been impressive for the Trojans this season, averaging 25.5 points, 6.4 rebounds, 3.6 assists, and 47.6 FG% while also leading the team in points, steals (2.8), and blocks (2.4). Watkins, known as the next big star, was considered a five-star recruit before announcing her commitment to USC in 2022.

Iriafen has been dominant for the Trojans averaging 18.4 points, 8.8 rebounds, 1.5 assists, and 52.0% while leading the team in rebounds. Iriafen joined USC for her final college season after her breakout season with Stanford, where she averaged 19.4 points and 11.0 rebounds and was awarded the most improved player in the Pac-12 Conference.

JuJu Watkins makes history with an appearance in a State Farm commercial

JuJu Watkins became only the second college athlete after WNBA star Caitlin Clark to sign a NIL deal with insurance giant State Farm. The USC sophomore starred with the insurance giant, and she shared on social media.

"It's an honor to partner with State Farm," Watkins said. "Not only are they one of the biggest brands in sports, they have also been investing in basketball and in the women’s game."

Watkins is no stranger to deals and endorsements, with her previous experience signing with Klutch Sports Group in 2022, making her the first female athlete on their books. She went ahead and sealed another deal with sportswear giant Nike later that year, moving on to sign a multiyear deal with Gatorade, amongst other brand endorsements.

In their last game against CBU, Watkins put up 40 points and set a USC record scoring nine three-pointers in the 94-52 blowout win. Adding to her showing, the sophomore produced six rebounds, three blocks, and 66.7 FG% from the floor. The USC Trojans (7-1) will be aiming to build on their start to the season against Oregon.