"Personally, I don't see the benefit": JuJu Watkins points out WNBA flaw while discussing 4-year eligibility rule

JuJu Watkins and the USC Trojans are riding smoothly through their first five Big Ten Conference games thus far and have won each of them. Earlier on Wednesday, they narrowly edged out the Maryland Terrapins by 79-74 to improve to a 15-1 overall record in the 2024-2025 season.

Once again, sophomore sensation Watkins led her team to the victory with 21 points, nine rebounds, two assists and two stocks (steals plus blocks). As more time passes, Watkins is showing the college basketball world time and time again as to how elite of a player she truly is.

Some say JuJu Watkins could already be a top pick if she could declare for the WNBA draft since eligibility rules such as graduating from a four-year course in college or being at least 22 years of age bar her from doing such. During the post-game press conference, the second-year star let her feelings known on the rule while pointing out a flaw the WNBA made according to her.

"I think eventually that would be nice to have the option (to declare). The league's not necessarily where it needs to be. There needs to be more roster spots, more teams. It's definitely developing and it's continuing to grow. I'm having fun in college, and I can't wait to get to the pros," Watkins shared. (7:30)

"Personally, I don't see the benefit but definitely down the line," she then asserted.

JuJu Watkins made it clear that she could think twice about continuing with her college career if she had an opportunity to play for the WNBA already. With her extensive skillset of incredible scoring and quick-fire handles, there's no doubt that the 6'2 dynamo would make an immediate impact in the league despite just being 19 years old.

Through her first two years of college basketball, Watkins is averaging 26.5 markers, 6.9 boards, 3.5 dimes, 2.3 swipes and 1.7 swats per game.

JuJu Watkins loves to play on the road

For JuJu Watkins, the feeling she gets from playing in away crowds and traveling the country with her teammates is one that she has always dreamt about. While a hostile Terrapins fanbase was on display on Wednesday, Watkins shared that she feels the love and support everywhere they go:

"I never really visit the East coast and the Midwest often so this is cool to see different places ... I think just being able to be a tourist as well is really cool. And then, to see the love and support we get, it's honestly unbelievable. So, being able to come in here and play and have fun is really a dream," Watkins said. (8:00)

Following the Maryland win, the Trojans will head back home to the Galen Center for a Sunday conference game against the Penn State Lady Lions. There, they will have the opportunity to soak in the USC faithful's full support.