Why Are Flau’Jae Johnson & Juju Watkins Not Playing in Unrivaled Despite Inked NIL Deals?

LSU’s Flau’Jae Johnson and USC Trojans guard Juju Watkins are widely regarded as the next big stars in women’s basketball. Fans are eagerly anticipating the chance to see these college rivals face off in the Unrivaled League, which is set to begin on January 17. However, despite joining the league, both players will not be taking the court just yet.

Unrivaled offers WNBA players a unique opportunity to earn money and refine their skills during the offseason. With its ambitious goal of becoming the highest-paying organization in women’s professional sports, the league has already attracted many top athletes. They are seeking the potential for higher earnings.

JuJu Watkins: A Rising Star Investing in the Future of Women’s Basketball

JuJu Watkins is no stranger to the spotlight. As a standout sophomore at USC, she’s already established herself as one of the brightest young talents in college basketball. But her influence isn’t limited to the court.

The guard is only 19, but she’s already making a big impact on the world of professional sports. She has joined as an investor in the new 3-on-3 basketball league co-founded by Breanna Stewart and Napheesa Collier. Watkins joined when the league announced a new round of investment, bringing their total capital raise to $35 million. She is now part of a star-studded group of investors, including NBA superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo, Olympic champion Michael Phelps, and South Carolina coach Dawn Staley.

During a recent appearance on ‘Good Game with Sarah Spain’, JuJu Watkins opened up about her decision to support Unrivaled and what the future might hold for her in the league while also hinting at other possibilities

“Yes, yes, for sure [I have plans to play in Unrivaled],” Watkins said. “I’m just really committed to try to grow the game as best as I can and if I’m able to do that now, of course that’s what I’m gonna do. So I was super excited to be a part of this new wave and hopefully be playing in the league some day.”

However, her eligibility to play is limited and under the WNBA’s current collective bargaining agreement, Watkins won’t be eligible to turn pro until 2027. This means fans eager to see her on the court in Unrivaled will have to wait until at least 2028 for her debut.

Although JuJu Watkins hasn’t officially signed with Unrivaled yet, the league has secured NIL deals with college stars including  Flau’jae Johnson, who will join once her college career is complete. Adding Watkins as a future player—not just an investor—would be a huge boost for Unrivaled.

Flau’jae Johnson: Making Waves While Awaiting Her Unrivaled Debut

LSU’s standout player and rapper Flau’jae Johnson, became the latest women’s basketball star to sign an NIL deal with Unrivaled, as reported by the Sports Business Journal. Johnson, a 2024 All-SEC Tournament player, was in her junior season with the LSU Tigers at the time. Her decision to sign with the league marked another exciting step in her career, adding more to her already impressive journey.

For Flau’jae Johnson, the opportunity to join Unrivaled isn’t just about basketball but also about the financial independence and doors it opens for women in sports.  “I wanted to be involved in something that is pushing the women’s game forward…These women are getting paid what they deserve.” Johnson mentioned in an interview with CNBC

Currently, in her junior season, Flau’jae isn’t eligible to play in Unrivaled just yet due to NCAA eligibility rules. This restriction ensures that Johnson can continue to compete for the Tigers while taking advantage of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) opportunities like her deal with Unrivaled.

While she can’t suit up just yet, her NIL deal with the league is still a game-changer. It not only highlights her rising star status but also positions her for long-term success by granting her an equity stake in Unrivaled.

Unrivaled also plans to leverage Flau’jae Johnson’s influence to promote their league during her college season. Beyond basketball, they are equally invested in supporting her pursuits in the music industry, a testament to their belief in her talent.

While Watkins and Johnson can’t compete just yet, their involvement in the league as investors and influencers is still a significant step forward for women’s sports. Their deals highlight the growing recognition of their talent and promise, setting the stage for future appearances when the time is right. For now, their focus remains on their college careers, however, both players are poised to make waves in the professional arena once they’re eligible.