JuJu Watkins demonstrates why she is the front-runner for National Player of the Year, threatening Caitlin Clark’s college dominance.

In the world of college basketball, few names have become as synonymous with excellence as Caitlin Clark. The University of Iowa star has redefined what it means to be a dominant player in the women’s game, amassing accolades, records, and a cult following since her freshman year. However, in this season’s race for National Player of the Year (NPOY), there’s a new contender—one who’s already shaking things up and forcing basketball enthusiasts to reassess the narrative of women’s college basketball dominance.

That contender is JuJu Watkins, the dynamic and versatile guard/forward from USC. Her rising profile has created significant buzz in the basketball world, as she continues to challenge the narrative that Clark has no rival in the sport. While Caitlin Clark is undoubtedly a generational talent, Watkins has demonstrated that she is ready to step into the spotlight and potentially surpass Clark for the NPOY title. Let’s delve into why JuJu Watkins is not just the front-runner for NPOY but a force that could fundamentally alter the landscape of women’s college basketball.

A Phenomenal Scorer

At the heart of JuJu Watkins’ case for NPOY is her undeniable scoring ability. One of the most impressive aspects of Watkins’ game is her scoring versatility. She can score in every conceivable way, whether it’s driving to the basket, pulling up for mid-range shots, or shooting the three. Unlike Caitlin Clark, who is primarily known for her deep three-point shooting and ability to create space for herself, Watkins blends her shooting touch with an athleticism that allows her to finish in a variety of ways around the basket.

This season, Watkins has demonstrated her skill in a number of high-profile games, showcasing her ability to be both an inside and outside threat. Her 40-point performances have turned heads, and she’s shown the ability to take over a game, not just as a scorer but as a playmaker as well. Watkins’ adaptability on the offensive end makes her a nightmare matchup for opposing defenses. She is capable of scoring in transition, in the half-court, or on isolation plays, making her one of the most difficult players to guard in college basketball.

Athleticism and Physicality

While Caitlin Clark is known for her sharp basketball IQ, impeccable shooting touch, and scoring prowess, one area where JuJu Watkins stands out is in her physicality and athleticism. Standing at 6’2″, Watkins possesses a unique combination of size, strength, and speed that allows her to dominate the game in ways that few other players can. Her ability to attack the basket, absorb contact, and finish through defenders is one of her signature traits.

Moreover, Watkins’ athleticism allows her to be a key asset in transition play, where she uses her speed to outrun defenders and finish at the rim. Her ability to guard multiple positions on defense further enhances her value to her team, and her rebounding skills provide the team with an added dimension of depth. Watkins doesn’t just play basketball—she imposes her will on the game with her physicality.

Defensive Impact

While much of the attention on NPOY candidates revolves around offensive production, JuJu Watkins has quietly established herself as a force on the defensive end of the floor. Her size and athleticism make her an excellent rebounder, especially on the offensive glass, where she creates second-chance opportunities for her team. But it’s her ability to lock down opposing players that truly sets her apart.

Defensively, Watkins is versatile and can guard multiple positions. Whether it’s defending a point guard in a pick-and-roll situation or contesting shots at the rim against bigger players, Watkins has the skill set to excel in a variety of roles. Her defensive efforts have been key in leading USC to victories over top-ranked opponents, with her ability to make crucial stops or steal the ball in critical moments.

Where Caitlin Clark is often asked to take on a large offensive load, JuJu Watkins has embraced a more balanced role, contributing significantly on both ends of the court. Her ability to lock down opponents defensively while also being one of the primary offensive weapons makes her an even more compelling candidate for NPOY.

Leadership and Intangibles

One of the most important yet often overlooked elements of a National Player of the Year candidate is their leadership. A player who can lead their team through adversity, elevate the play of their teammates, and be a driving force behind their team’s success is invaluable. JuJu Watkins embodies this leadership on and off the court.

Her maturity and poise in high-pressure moments show her to be not just a player with immense talent but one who can handle the weight of expectation. As a leader for USC, Watkins has helped guide a team that had expectations but lacked the historical pedigree of some of the other top women’s basketball programs. USC has become one of the most dangerous teams in the country, and Watkins’ leadership and ability to deliver in clutch moments are crucial to their success.

Furthermore, her basketball IQ, understanding of the game, and ability to read defenses allow her to make her teammates better. Whether it’s through setting up plays, getting her teammates open shots, or communicating effectively on defense, Watkins has shown she’s capable of taking on more than just scoring. Her leadership ability is essential to her NPOY candidacy, as it showcases her value as an all-around player.

The Shift in the Narrative

The race for National Player of the Year is often framed around the dominance of a few select players. For the past few seasons, Caitlin Clark has been the overwhelming favorite due to her incredible scoring ability, knack for the spectacular, and statistical dominance. However, this season, JuJu Watkins has emerged as a legitimate challenger to Clark’s throne.

The dominant narrative of Clark’s reign has been built on her remarkable ability to shoot from deep, her flashy plays, and her capacity to take over games. Still, Watkins brings a new dimension to the conversation. She is a player who can impact the game in every facet—offense, defense, leadership, and physicality. While Clark is exceptional in her own right, Watkins’ holistic game and her ability to affect every part of the court have made her a serious contender for the NPOY award.

The NPOY conversation traditionally leans heavily on offensive numbers, but in Watkins’ case, her contributions on both ends of the floor, her leadership, and her ability to elevate her team make her a candidate who can disrupt Clark’s dominance. Watkins’ versatility and physicality set her apart from a player like Clark, whose scoring dominance has often overshadowed her lack of physicality and defensive prowess.

The Road Ahead

As the season progresses, JuJu Watkins will have numerous opportunities to prove that she deserves to be recognized as the National Player of the Year. Her team’s performance will also be critical in determining her candidacy. USC’s success in the postseason will play a significant role in whether or not Watkins can push past Clark in the race for NPOY. If USC can contend for a national title and Watkins can continue her high level of play, she will make a compelling case for the NPOY award.

However, the battle won’t be easy. Caitlin Clark is a player with a remarkable track record, a global fanbase, and a game that consistently wows audiences. But JuJu Watkins is an undeniable force, and her skill set offers something new and exciting to the women’s college basketball landscape. If she can maintain her level of performance and continue to be a game-changer, there’s a real possibility that the 2025 NPOY title will be hers.

JuJu Watkins’ rise to prominence in women’s college basketball is a testament to her immense talent, hard work, and determination. She has proven that she can do it all—score, rebound, defend, and lead—and her all-around game makes her a true threat to Caitlin Clark’s college dominance. As the race for National Player of the Year heats up, Watkins’ case becomes more compelling by the day.

While Clark’s legacy is firmly established, there’s no denying that Watkins has the potential to carve out her own place in history, one that may even overshadow Clark’s. Whether or not she wins NPOY this season, there’s little doubt that JuJu Watkins is one of the brightest young stars in women’s college basketball, and her future looks even brighter. The next few months will determine who takes home the NPOY award, but one thing is certain: JuJu Watkins is not backing down from the challenge.