Lindsay Gottlieb, the head coach of USC’s women’s basketball program, and star forward JuJu Watkins recently opened the doors of a sold‑out kids camp that attracted families from across the country. The event, held on the USC campus, combined intensive skill drills with fun activities, giving youngsters a chance to learn from two of the program’s most visible figures.
A Camp That Keeps Growing
Assistant coach Courtney Jaco noted that the camp’s popularity has surged, expanding from an initial cohort of 32 participants to over 140 children this year. The rapid growth reflects both the rising profile of the program and the strong demand for youth basketball opportunities in the region.
The camp served as a vivid showcase of Gottlieb’s coaching philosophy and Watkins’ star power. Through interactive sessions, the duo demonstrated not only technical expertise but also a genuine passion for nurturing the next generation of players.
Community Connection
Watkins was especially praised for her warm, patient interactions with the children. She moved from station to station, offering encouragement, answering questions, and signing autographs, leaving a lasting impression on campers and their families alike.
The experience resonated far beyond the immediate Los Angeles area. Families traveled from Northern California and even from San Antonio, Texas, to attend, underscoring the camp’s growing national appeal and the broader impact of USC’s women’s basketball brand.
Looking Ahead
As the camp concludes, both Gottlieb and Watkins expressed optimism about the future of youth basketball in the region. They hinted at plans to expand outreach programs, aiming to bring similar events to more communities and to continue using their platform to inspire young athletes.