JuJu Watkins stood on the sideline at the Galen Center, her knee brace a quiet reminder of the ACL tear that ended her sophomore season in March.
As USC called a timeout against South Carolina, cameras caught her leaning in toward freshman guard Jazzy Davidson, gesturing through defensive rotations with the focus of a coach twice her age.
Though Davidson needs to master one crucial skill, Watkins is making sure that vision comes to life.
JuJu Watkins Spotted Having Pep Talk With Jazzy Davidson
While she’s dealing with injury challenges on her own, cameras from FOX College Hoops captured Watkins breaking down plays for Davidson, the No. 1 recruit in the 2025 class, who stepped into the spotlight after Watkins’ injury.
Interestingly, Davidson has averaged 17.5 points per game early on, but Watkins’ real-time tips during the latest matchup highlighted her shift to mentor.
JuJu Watkins giving some advice to her freshman Jazzy Davidson 🥺 pic.twitter.com/uE89s9PW8k
— WNBA Got Game (@wnbagotgame) November 16, 2025
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With USC ranked No. 17 and facing a tough non-conference slate, Watkins keeps influencing wins from the bench, even as she eyes a 2026 return.
Additionally, ahead of the 2026 WNBA draft, as college players anticipated to make their mark, there’s still time for both Watkins and Davidson to take the pro leap. Till then, they could very well improve on their skills.
JuJu Watkins Always Tries To Give Back To The Community
Watkins’ sideline guidance for Davidson mirrors the way she pours into those around her off the court. It comes from her rooted belief in her Watts upbringing and family legacy of service.
Just weeks into the 2025-26 season, while rehabbing, she organized a drive for January wildfire victims in Southern California.
She was collecting hygiene kits, backpacks, and clothing for displaced families, including some she knew personally.
Additionally, she’s associated with Klutch Sports, and she has parlayed partnerships with Taco Bell and State Farm into community pushes, like their Good Neighbor initiative for women’s sports funding.