JuJu Watkins reveals key trait she learned from Kyrie Irving and DeMar DeRozan that helps her destroy defenses

JuJu Watkins caught the eyes of several NBA-level pro players ever since she was in high school. Among those players, some took it upon themselves to mentor the young budding star as she entered college to compete at the NCAA level.

The list of her mentors includes legendary NBA players like LeBron James, Kyrie Irving and USC alumni DeMar DeRozan. USC blew past the Michigan Wolverines 78-58 in the last game of the year. Watkins had 31 points, five rebounds and seven assists.

Watkins revealed she used the first quarter of almost every game to patiently analyze the defensive approach of her opponents. This ability helped her become more decisive in the games and make "barbecue chicken" of her opponents. When the reporters further asked her about how she developed this level of patience, she said:

"I think a lot of it comes from having conversations. I think when I talked with pro players, DeMar [DeRozan] and you know, Kyrie [Irving], they all emphasized playing smart. And for DeMar, it's like knowing when to attack and set the defense up so that they think you're you know trying to figure things out but then you already figured it out."

"So it's just having that patience and really trusting the team, because we practice for moments like this. So it's just a matter of reading the floor for me and try to be as efficient as I can," she added.

JuJu Watkins in action vs Michigan Wolverines [NCAA Womens Basketball: Michigan at Southern California - Source: Imagn]

JuJu Watkins' bond with NBA stars like DeMar DeRozan and LeBron James

Ever since JuJu Watkins decided to go to USC, DeMar DeRozan guided her with his strategies and tactics on the floor. As a USC alumnus, he sometimes visits her on campus.

LeBron's bond with her goes way back to high school, when she became the first high school player to sign a NIL deal (with Klutch Sports, the same agency that represents James). Then after Bronny James joined USC, LeBron also frequently attended JuJu's games.

LeBron James and his wife Savannah James attending son Bronny James' game at USC [NCAA Basketball: Washington State at Southern California - Source: Imagn]

James' production company also signed Watkins on a NIL deal and is now producing a docu-series on her life called "On the Rise: JuJu Watkins."

When will JuJu Watkins be eligible for the WNBA draft?

Unlike NBA basketball, the WNBA doesn't allow the one-and-done exception for players to get drafted after only one year in college.

Therefore, JuJu Watkins will have to finish her college before she can declare for the WNBA draft (after attaining the minimum age of 22). Hence, she will not be eligible for the draft until 2027 and can continue to build her legacy at USC Trojans.