How a JuJu Watkins Funko Pop Became USC’s Good Luck Charm in NCAA Tournament

JuJu Watkins has been officially out for the season and did not accompany Southern California to the NCAA Women’s Tournament Sweet 16 or Elite Eight. However, she is still present with her companions.

The only difference is that it is just 4.7 inches tall.

The Trojans have made every effort to involve Watkins in the run as they attempt to qualify for their first Final Four since 1986 without their star, who is recuperating from a knee injury that ended her season. Prior to their Sweet 16 matchup with Kansas State, they achieved this by wearing Nike jerseys featuring Watkins’ signature bun, but their next tribute won the show: the Funko Pop.

In today’s world, Funko Pops have become the ultimate collector’s item, serving as a benchmark for determining if someone has reached celebrity status. These figurines represent a wide array of personalities, from beloved fictional characters in films, television, and video games to renowned artists and athletes. For many, having a Funko Pop made in their likeness signifies a significant milestone in their journey to fame.

However, prior to the start of the 2024-25 college basketball season, no active college athlete had been honored with their own Funko Pop. That all changed in November when Funko revealed that Watkins would be the first active college player to receive this distinction, highlighting her remarkable talent and star appeal.

Fast forward four months, and the Watkins Funko Pop is making waves in the Spokane Regional. It was spotted on the USC bench during the game against Kansas State, showcasing her in a cardinal jersey, complete with a basketball, her signature bun, necklace, and the iconic USC “Fight On” hand gesture. The resemblance to Watkins is striking.

At a press conference on Sunday, USC head coach Lindsay Gottlieb stated, “I didn’t even know the Funko Pop was going to be on the bench, and then I saw the clips of that, and I’m like, okay, that was crazy and so fun and funny.” “That’s the best Funko Pop of all time. The bun is perfect, the whole thing.”

Why USC sent a Funko Pop JuJu Watkins to Spokane

The tournament’s newest sensation can be attributed to freshman Rian Forestier. A USC source told USA TODAY Sports that Forestier, one of the most outspoken players on the bench, came up with the concept and took it to Spokane. Throughout the game, it was common to see Forestier carrying the Funko Pop or having it close by.

Kayleigh Heckel, a fellow freshman, clarified that the squad wanted to make everything “as normal as possible,” which is why the figurine was on the bench in addition to making the journey. Her spirit can be there even though Watkins cannot.

“She’s been with us all season, so we just wanted to make it seem like she was here,” Heckel stated. “She was watching us, supporting us at home, having a watch party with her family, so I think that it just helped us make everything a lot more normal.”

This season has undoubtedly been unusual for USC, especially with their star player absent during crucial games. Gottlieb referred to this situation as “uncharted territory,” but the team draws strength from Watkins’ spirit, which helps sustain their belief and confidence as they aim to finish the season on a high note.

Aside from the Funko Pop, Watkins has remained a significant presence. The team connected with her before the game and had a FaceTime call with her following their Sweet 16 victory. Gottlieb mentioned that the locker room was filled with smiles as they celebrated and spoke with her after the win.

Watkins Funko Pop, who provided so much “good Juju” on Saturday, will be back on the sidelines for USC’s Elite Eight battle against Connecticut on Monday night at nine o’clock.

Maybe it will be nodding along by the end of the evening as they take down the nets and reserve that trip to the Final Four.