Last March, USC Trojans guard JuJu Watkins faced a significant challenge when she tore her ACL, forcing her out of the remainder of March Madness and her entire sophomore season. However, this setback has turned into a successful comeback story, highlighting her resilience and talent.
Prior to her injury, Watkins signed a lucrative multi-year sneaker deal with Nike, marking one of the most significant endorsements in women’s basketball history. This partnership included her exclusive player shoe line, which is now starting to gain traction in the market, justifying Nike’s investment in the young star.
Recently, Watkins released her second player-exclusive basketball shoe, the Nike G.T. Cut 3 “JuJu Watkins,” which quickly sold out on the Nike website and has an average resale price of $325 on StockX. For those still interested, the shoes are available at Dick’s Sporting Goods for the retail price of $210.
Watkins displayed her generosity by gifting her teammates pairs of her signature shoes, capturing their excitement in heartwarming moments shared on social media. The reactions from her fellow Trojans underscore not only the stylishness of the shoes but also the close-knit community of the team.
As a member of a Nike-sponsored school and one of seven “Mamba Programs” in the NCAA, USC’s basketball teams benefit from exclusive gear, including retro Nike shoes designed by the late Kobe Bryant. With the newfound popularity of Watkins’ shoes, it is expected that her teammates and other college athletes will start showcasing her design this season.
The “JuJu Watkins” colorway features a striking Team Crimson upper with Laser Orange Swoosh logos and unique details, making it an eye-catching addition to any player’s gear. Designed for dynamic athletes, the Nike G.T. Cut 3 offers responsive ZoomX foam for cushioning, excellent traction for quick movements, and a carbon fiber plate enhancing stability and propulsion.
Watkins’ stylish spin on the already impressive G.T. Cut 3 has made it a must-have for basketball enthusiasts. As the 2025-26 NCAA women’s basketball season begins, both her on-court performance and off-court influence promise to be significant, making her a player to watch in the coming months. This year, the excitement surrounding her footwear reflects a broader trend in women’s sports, where female athletes are increasingly making impactful strides both in their professions and in brand collaborations.