A Camp of Hope at the Galen Center
On a bright summer afternoon, the Galen Center buzzed with the energy of more than 150 young athletes, all girls from third through eighth grade, who gathered for a basketball camp led by USC’s rising star JuJu Watkins. The event was more than a drill session; it was a celebration of curiosity and enthusiasm, qualities Watkins said she finds uniquely rewarding in working with this age group.
Watkins moved effortlessly among the campers, guiding them through shooting drills and scrimmages while offering encouragement that resonated with the participants. For many of the girls, meeting a player of her caliber was a moment of personal validation, and her genuine excitement about the sport amplified the camp’s infectious atmosphere.
The camp also marked a significant personal milestone for Watkins. After tearing her ACL and missing the entire previous season, she returned to the court with a renewed sense of purpose. The recovery process had been arduous, but the experience reinforced her determination to make an impact both on and off the hardwood.
A New Era for the Trojans
Watkins’ return coincides with a pivotal moment for the USC women’s program. Jazzy Davidson, the reigning National Freshman of the Year, is set to return, providing continuity and experience. Adding to the excitement, the university secured the nation’s top recruiting class for 2026, highlighted by Saniyah Hall, the consensus No. 1 overall recruit, who will join the roster next season.
With key players poised to return and a highly touted incoming class, Watkins sees an opportunity to orchestrate one of the most remarkable comeback narratives in NCAA history. Her vision extends beyond personal accolades; she aims to steer the Trojans to a national championship by 2027, a goal that has already begun to shape the team’s culture and recruiting narrative.
Beyond the immediate roster implications, the camp underscored the broader significance of mentorship in women’s sports. Watkins’ willingness to invest time in the next generation reflects a growing trend where established athletes leverage their platforms to foster inclusive growth, ensuring that the pipeline of talent remains vibrant and diverse.