In a shocking turn of events, rising college basketball star JuJu Watkins was arrested Saturday evening in Houston and charged with carrying an unlawful weapon, according to Harris County Sheriff’s Office records. The 20-year-old USC Trojans guard, widely regarded as one of the most dominant players in women’s college basketball, was taken into custody following a routine traffic stop near the Galleria area.
Authorities allege that a handgun was found in Watkins’ vehicle during the stop. However, sources close to the athlete claim the weapon was legally owned but inadvertently left in a bag after a recent trip to a shooting range with her father. “JuJu is a responsible young woman who has never had so much as a parking ticket,” her attorney, Marcus Delgado, said in a statement. “This is a misunderstanding she fully intends to clear up.”
No injuries or threats were reported. Watkins was released on a personal recognizance bond Sunday morning and is expected to appear in court next month. The charge, a Class A misdemeanor in Texas, could carry a penalty of up to one year in jail if convicted.
The timing of the arrest is particularly unfortunate as Watkins was in Houston visiting family following the conclusion of her sophomore season. Her teammate, point guard Kaitlyn Turner, expressed support on social media: “We stand with Juju. She’s a great leader and we trust the truth will come out.”
USC Athletics released a brief statement saying they are aware of the incident and gathering more information. Watkins, who averaged 27.8 points per game last season and led the Trojans to the Sweet Sixteen, has not publicly commented. Fans and analysts are watching closely as the legal process unfolds, hoping it does not derail what promises to be a historic college career.