The WNBA and WNBPA are looking to reach a deal, but their demands and interests are currently in conflict. It is not only impacting WNBA players but also college athletes looking to get into the pro world. The top-tier players like Olivia Miles, Lauren Betts, and Azzi Fudd feel the most heat with their immediate eligibility, while JuJu Watkins and Hannah Hidalgo also might look into different options.
Luckily, WNBPA vice president Breanna Stewart reports positive momentum in CBA negotiations after the recent league proposal, though it might still take time to iron out the details. The situation might be normal by the 2027 WNBA draft (hopefully), allowing the league to function smoothly. Ironically, the projected top pick of the class is also undergoing her rehab.
JuJu Watkins Provides Injury Update
USC star is missing the entire 2025-26 season to recover from a torn ACL in her right knee. The ACL Injury, which took place in March 2025, will have been completed for one year, and she is expected to be on the training courts or gym, rebuilding her fitness. The player recently opened up about the situation, which aligns with her recovery timeline.
In the interview, Watkins said, “Right now, I am finally able to start working out a little bit, so that’s been good. I am starting to pick up the ball a little more, so I am grateful for that. But honestly, just being there for my team, attacking rehab every day, so yeah, a lot of different things, but that’s where I am right now.”
JuJu Watkins talked with us about her rehab process and her recent trip to a USA Basketball camp. pic.twitter.com/zeF4chW6MO
— She's In The Game (@shesinthegametv) February 20, 2026
Interestingly, Team USA added the explosive guard to its training camp at Duke University, where she didn’t play much but learnt from the greats of basketball.
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While the player is still away from action, she is one of the most followed athletes and an exciting prospect entering the league. Knowing her potential and future stardom, Nike assigned her to their prominent signature shoe model.
JuJu Watkins’ Mega Collaboration With LeBron James
Ahead of NBA All-Star Weekend in L.A., sneaker giants officially unveiled the “Silver Lining” Nike LeBron NXXT Gen by JuJu. The player was part of the design process and worked closely with the team for 18 months, as per reports. The moment notably distinguishes Watkins as the first athlete to co-create a basketball shoe for King James’ NXXT series.
“It feels amazing,” Watkins told a group of reporters. “I mean, this has been in the works for so long. So, to finally see it come to life — and be given this responsibility — I’m really proud of it. I’m so grateful for LeBron and the Nike team for giving me this opportunity.”
LeBron James debuts the Nike LeBron NXT Gen JW, his collab with JuJu Watkins 👑 @KingJames @Jujubballin
— Sole Retriever (@SoleRetriever) February 8, 2026
📷 @NBAKicks pic.twitter.com/i4jfm0WHGz
While the 22-year-old herself is a Nike athlete, she showed love for Sabrina Ionescu by wearing her signature shoes during the USC vs. Oregon game. And now, collaborating with the LBJ’s shoe, she took her first step toward getting her own signature shoe in the coming seasons