JuJu Watkins, a 19-year-old balancing college coursework with a promising basketball career, is embracing her hectic schedule with enthusiasm. Despite her busy life, she finds ways to integrate new interests and maintain her well-being.
Watkins has aspirations beyond basketball. She mentioned her interest in learning to play the guitar, a hobby she had to set aside due to her busy basketball season. During an event hosted by Meta AI in New York City, she expressed hope that aspiring athletes could use AI tools to access training resources. Reflecting on her own goals, she humorously noted that she might ask Meta AI for guitar lessons since her guitar currently serves as a decorative piece in her living room.
In addition to her sports and musical interests, Watkins is also focused on her academic pursuits. She is currently on track to major in communications and has found her classes, particularly a feminist theory course, both challenging and enlightening. She enjoys exploring different theories and understanding their historical contexts, which she finds intellectually stimulating.
Watkins also has a penchant for collecting various items, although she often questions her motivations behind these hobbies. For a while, she was an avid collector of Funko Pop figurines, amassing pieces like Michael Jackson, Joker, and Basquiat. However, she eventually curtailed this hobby to avoid unnecessary spending. In contrast, her passion for sneaker collecting remains unwavering. She acknowledges the need to organize her collection better, planning to invest in clear acrylic boxes for a more aesthetically pleasing display.
Despite the demands of her career, Watkins is finding ways to step out of her comfort zone. She described her involvement in a campaign with Morgan and Morgan, where she had to showcase her personality and be quirky on camera. This experience, although nerve-wracking, is something she views as a side quest—an opportunity to grow and improve over time. Acting, in particular, has been a challenge for her as it requires her to express emotions that don’t come naturally, pushing her to step into unfamiliar territory.
Watkins’ journey to finding personal space amidst her career pressures is ongoing. In March, basketball legend Cheryl Miller asked her if she had found a “space for herself,” to which Watkins initially responded no. Since then, she feels she has made progress, especially during the offseason when she has more time to relax. The offseason allows her to take a deep breath, unwind, and enjoy some downtime. Recently, she experienced her first vacation in Mexico, a brief escape that allowed her to shop and relax. However, she considers her hometown of Los Angeles a vacation spot in its own right, a place where she can find solace and joy.
In her quest for balance, Watkins emphasizes the importance of both hard work and relaxation. She acknowledges the cyclical nature of her life—intense periods of training followed by well-deserved breaks. This rhythm helps her manage the pressures of her career while still finding time for personal growth and enjoyment.
Overall, JuJu Watkins exemplifies a young athlete striving for excellence both on and off the court. Her willingness to explore new interests, embrace academic challenges, and find moments of relaxation reflects a mature approach to balancing a demanding career with personal well-being. As she continues to navigate her journey, she remains committed to her goals, driven by a passion for growth and self-discovery.
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