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JuJu Watkins honored after devastating injury

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Steven Corder | Last updated Mar 31, 2025 9:31 AM ET

JuJu Watkins was riding high during a stellar sophomore season, leading USC to a No. 1 seed in the NCAA Tournament. But her dreams were dashed when she tore her ACL in the second round of March Madness, leaving her sidelined for the remainder of the tournament—and potentially most of next season. Yet, in the face of adversity, Gatorade is stepping up to support the basketball phenom, paying tribute to her resilience with a new ad campaign.

As part of her NIL deal with the brand, Gatorade released a stirring ad titled “Setbacks Only Set the Stage,” celebrating Watkins’ determination in the face of hardship. This ad isn’t just a typical brand message—it’s a nod to the athlete’s unwavering work ethic, a trait that has helped her dominate on the court. The ad’s release comes as a reminder that no matter the setback, the stage is still set for a comeback.

Caitlin showing support for juju and sharing this post by Gatorade ❤️ pic.twitter.com/c7ILCFHovD
— kaytee♡⋆*ೃ:. (@winchesters) March 29, 2025

Watkins, who has seen her On3 NIL Valuation skyrocket to $739,000, is one of the top stars in the NIL space. Her portfolio includes high-profile partnerships with major brands like Nike, Fanatics, and State Farm, and she has even signed a historic multi-year deal with Fanatics that includes her own trading card. Gatorade’s tribute only enhances the visibility of Watkins’ rising profile in the NIL arena, cementing her as a key player in the future of college sports marketing.

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Despite her injury, Watkins has not gone through this challenge alone. UConn’s Paige Bueckers, a fellow ACL survivor, expressed her empathy and support, saying, “Your heart breaks for her…but she’s going to attack this process just as she’s attacked basketball.” This powerful endorsement from another top player adds to the momentum surrounding Watkins’ recovery, underscoring that she’s not only part of an elite group of athletes but also one who will return stronger than ever.

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Gatorade’s tribute ad is more than just marketing; it’s a testament to JuJu Watkins’ resilience. As she recovers, fans can rest assured that this setback will only set the stage for an even greater comeback.

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

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