Are Ashlyn and JuJu Watkins Related? Here’s the Truth Behind the Shared Name and Rising Stardom
In the world of women’s college basketball, few names shine brighter than Ashlyn Watkins and JuJu Watkins. With both athletes dominating on the court and sharing a last name, many fans have wondered: Are they related?
Despite their similarities in name and elite athletic ability, Ashlyn and JuJu Watkins are not related. Their success stems from two very different paths shaped by unique backgrounds and personal experiences.
Different Roads to Stardom: Ashlyn vs. JuJu Watkins
Ashlyn Watkins, a native of Columbia, South Carolina, rose to fame at Cardinal Newman High School, leading her team to four straight SCISA Class 3A state titles. She wowed fans early with her dunking ability, even winning the 2022 McDonald’s All-American Dunk Contest.
Now a standout for the South Carolina Gamecocks, Ashlyn is known for her elite defense. She led the SEC with 91 blocks, while averaging 9.2 points and 7.4 rebounds during the 2023–24 season.
JuJu Watkins, on the other hand, hails from Los Angeles, California, where she became a prep superstar at Sierra Canyon High School. In the Class of 2023, she was the most sought-after recruit, earning titles like Gatorade National Player of the Year and McDonald’s All-American Game MVP.
JuJu committed to USC, staying close to home and making an immediate impact. She led all Division I freshmen in scoring during her debut season and helped the Trojans reach the Elite Eight for the first time in 30 years. With averages of 23.9 points, 6.8 rebounds, and 3.4 assists, JuJu was named National Player of the Year.
Same Name, Separate Stories
Despite the identical surnames and concurrent rise in college basketball, Ashlyn and JuJu share no family ties. Ashlyn’s roots are in South Carolina, while JuJu’s upbringing and journey are deeply embedded in California.
The name “Watkins” is relatively common, and its presence among two elite players is nothing more than an intriguing coincidence. Both stars have built their own legacies—Ashlyn as a defensive powerhouse, and JuJu as an offensive juggernaut—each contributing something special to the sport.
Bottom Line: While their last names may match, Ashlyn and JuJu Watkins are carving out their own distinct stories on the national stage—one block and one bucket at a time.
