USC Trojans star JuJu Watkins is making waves in women’s basketball, recently recognized as the 2025 Wooden Award winner and Naismith National Player of the Year. While her accolades and record-breaking performances on the court are making headlines, Watkins honors her personal “GOAT”—her mother, Sari Watkins—in a heartfelt Mother’s Day tribute.
On her Instagram account, JuJu shared a touching photo of the two engaged in community service, captioned “happy mother’s day to my goat ❤️.” This post highlights the deep bond between mother and daughter, emphasizing that support and appreciation for family play a significant role in JuJu’s life amid her rising fame.
Sari Watkins, a former college track and field athlete, has profoundly shaped JuJu’s perspective on sports and life. They embody a shared commitment to community service, a value rooted in their family history. JuJu’s great grandfather, Ted Watkins Sr., founded the Watts Labor Community Action Committee after the 1965 Watts Riots, creating a legacy of giving back that resonates through generations.
Central to their relationship is the family motto: “Don’t do nothing if you’re not going to be fully in it.” This philosophy has contributed to JuJu’s exceptional work ethic, propelling her to set the NCAA Division I freshman scoring record with an impressive total of 920 points. She also became the fastest USC player to reach 1,000 career points, achieving this milestone in just 38 games.
Sari remains an unwavering support system for JuJu, attending her games and even maintaining the ritual of styling her daughter’s signature pre-game hair bun—a secret that Sari playfully keeps to herself. Though JuJu garners national attention for her basketball achievements, she stays true to the values instilled by her mother, engaging in community initiatives that reflect her family’s commitment to service.
Watkins embodies the spirit of giving back while excelling on the court, proving that her greatest influence comes from the woman she affectionately calls her “GOAT.” As JuJu continues to rise in the realm of women’s basketball, her dedication to both sport and community shines brightly, inspiring many young athletes to prioritize family and service alongside their ambitions.