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JuJu Watkins 'Always Had That Fire,' Future USC Trojan Says: Exclusive

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Lorenzo J. Reyna | Last updated Aug 11, 2025 10:00 AM ET

Watching JuJu Watkins dominate is nothing new for one future member of the USC Trojans. This incoming 2026 talent watched the competitive nature of the women's basketball star at a young age. And before Watkins started to help fill the Galen Center.

USC football verbal commit Deshonne Redeaux grew up with Watkins in the Los Angeles region. The star running back from Oaks Christian High in Westlake Village, Ca., told Athlon Sports they've had a long lasting relationship.

And that includes Redeaux witnessing firsthand the competitive nature of the national player of the year. Redeaux went down memory lane during his appearance at the Marmonte League media day.

"She was always like family. We all grew up together. We've known each other since babies," Redeaux told Athlon. "I even remember playing basketball in the backyard with her."

The fiery and talented Watkins the nation sees is the same one Redeaux saw. Including Redeaux realizing why she was so competitive.

"She's been competitive since she was young. She's always had that fire and just always wanted to win. She always wanted to be great at her craft," Redeaux said.

The USC pledge for Lincoln Riley, however, wants to remind folks that Watkins comes with a soft spot.

"But she's such a sweet soul and doing so amazing," Redeaux said. "High praise to her for helping me out with my announcement with the video."

Watkins happens to be a big endorser for Redeaux, with the future USC RB saying " She's always showing me love and supporting me." She even appeared in Redeaux's commitment announcement video back in April.

Redeaux adds Watkins is helping educate him on how to navigate through the NIL era of collegiate sports.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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