“I’m CONFUSED.” Back in April, LeBron James wasted no time asking why the WNBA follows the eligibility rule. But that’s not what the WBB players think, clearly. While JuJu Watkins may not be counted among the top NIL earners in the NCAA, she does boast high-profile deals with brands like Nike and Gatorade and a value of $576k. The NIL era has reduced the need for student-athletes to rush to the pros as soon as they’re eligible but the WNBA is a little different. While the NBA allows players with one year of college, aka one year out of high school, women basketball players cannot enter the draft till they’re 22. And Watkins sees no hurry to change that rule.

In yesterday’s post-game press conference, after beating Maryland, a reporter asked the USC Trojans star if the WNBA, owing to its rising popularity, should consider eliminating the four-year rule eventually. Watkins is not so sure, “Yeah, I don’t know. I think eventually that would be nice, to have the option. But I think the league’s not necessarily where it needs to be.”

“There needs to be more roster spots, more teams, so it’s definitely developing and it’s continuing to grow.” While the 12 teams are growing to 13 with the Golden State Valkyries debuting this year and two more teams coming by 2026, it’s nowhere close to, let’s say, the NBA’s 30 franchises, MLB’s 30, or the NFL’s 32.

Hence, the WNBA’s website clearly states, “The league requires domestic draft entrants to be at least 22 years old during the year in which the draft takes place and to have no remaining college eligibility or to renounce any future college eligibility.”

But Watkins also declares, “I’m having fun in college and can’t wait to get to the pros, so in terms of that, for me personally, I don’t see the benefit but definitely down the line.”

Watkins, who was a star freshman last year, will be eligible for the draft in 2027. For the guard, many analysts and former basketball players have already discussed how staying in college is a wastage of time for the league. Why not? The Trojans No. 12 is not just the offensive power for her team but has been named the next Caitlin Clark of the NCAA multiple times. And WNBA, as the best selling brand this year in the country, could definitely use a player like her to continue its charm for the incoming fans and the loyal followers.

Now, even famous names throughout the basketball community are weighing in on the matter.

LeBron James is not in for 4 years of college before WNBA

JuJu Watkins herself had previously said that she would like to at least have the option of going to the draft after a while. Although the college scenario is favorable, the WNBA is still alluring.

“I want to say personally I am enjoying my experience, Coach [Gottlieb],” Watkins said on the Good Game with Sarah Spain podcast. “I definitely think we should have the option. There’s just been such a growth in college basketball where it’s like, why would you want to leave? Because you’re able to have that experience and build your brand here in college as well.”

LeBron James said something similar, “I’m sitting here after watching the WNBA draft the other day and wondering WHY THE HELL do those young ladies have to stay in school for 4 years before being able to go pro??!!! I’m CONFUSED”

Meanwhile, Watkins knows it’s a touchy subject but she definitely thinks college prepares players for the pros. Nevertheless, an option doesn’t hurt!