JuJu Watkins Set to Star and Produce Upcoming NBC & Peacock Docuseries
By Darian Kelly
Last Updated on November 17, 2024
USC women’s basketball star JuJu Watkins can now add the title of documentary producer to her already impressive list of business ventures off the basketball court. The sophomore guard, along with UNINTERRUPTED, 4.4. Forty Media and State Farm will present “On the Rise: JuJu Watkins,” an original documentary based on her life journey beyond the basketball court. The first two episodes of the six-part documentary will air on NBC and Peacock on November 23 at 3 p.m. ET before Watkins and USC take on the Notre Dame Fighting Irish. Additionally, the remaining episodes will air exclusively on Peacock.
Jamal Henderson, Chief Content Officer of UNINTERRUPTED, shared with NBC what the audience will learn about Watkins from the series.
“On the Rise: JuJu Watkins’ isn’t only about sports – it shows how JuJu’s deep connection to her family and community drive her decision making and dedication to basketball,” Henderson said.
Since her time at Sierra Canyon School, Watkins has garnered attention for her achievements on the hardwood, such as being named the Gatorade California Player of the Year in 2022 as a junior and securing the title of USA Today HSSA Girls Basketball Player of the Year in 2023. While at Sierra Canyon, she joined Nike’s first NIL class.
Rich Paul, the CEO of Klutch Sports Group, emphasized Watkins’ standout qualities that distinguish her from other athletes.
“JuJu can set the standard for excellence on and off the court, and it’s amazing to see her begin to maximize the opportunities in front of her with strategy and expertise, even at this young age,” Paul said. “This documentary series captures her incredible journey to this point, showcasing her extraordinary talent, unwavering work ethic, and the vital role of community in her success.”
Watkins is part of a wave of NIL-driven documentaries that redefine how athletes share their stories and navigate life in the spotlight. Like the Amazon Prime series Money Game, which highlights LSU athletes Livvy Dunne and Flau’jae Johnson and former Tigers Angel Reese and Jayden Daniels, Watkins’ documentary emphasizes authenticity and the challenges of balancing sports, personal growth, and NIL opportunities.
