Rachel Annamarie DeMita, a die-hard Caitlin Clark supporter, who even joined Clark fans in the anti-Nike movement, has something to say about the constant comparisons between JuJu Watkins and the No. 22. While you might assume her stance comes from bias, think again. The TV show host has a solid reason for wanting the media to back off, and it’s rooted in genuine concern for the pressure being piled onto the USC Trojans sophomore.

The former NBA 2K host believes that the media seems to be pressuring Watkins to perform like the Fever star to further their selfish narrative. Hence, she pointed out that the success of the 2x NPOY’s rise to prominence was not a one-dimensional story. “The Caitlin Clark effect was a perfect storm of a bunch of different things,” she said. 

“First, it was her play style—something we hadn’t seen in the women’s game.” Another one, per her, was the fact that she came from Iowa, which is not a traditional powerhouse program, and she elevated it. 

And while the 19-year-old is undeniably talented, the media personality emphasized the differences in their circumstances. USC, where Watkins plays, may not be UConn or South Carolina, but it’s still a big-name school with a stronger program. “The circumstances are not the same,” DeMita argued.

JuJu and the Indiana star are often pitted against each other, with some even believing Watkins is destined to steal Clark’s thunder. But DeMita highlighted that Clark’s freshman year numbers—26.6 points, 5.9 rebounds, and 7.1 assists—don’t necessarily dwarf Watkins’ stats.

In fact, Watkins averaged 27.1 points, 7.3 rebounds, and 3.3 assists as a freshman. Their playing styles are simply different. The Trojans star contributes more on the boards, while the Iowa alumna dominates in assists with an all-around game. Not to mention, last season, these numbers by the California native trailed Clark for most ppg at the second spot in the nation.

Now, in her sophomore year, Watkins’ scoring average has dropped slightly to 22 points per game, though her assists have increased. 

“She’s five games into her sophomore season,” the show producer said. “She has a whole ceiling of potential.” The host lashed out at the media for creating unnecessary pressure. She added, “I think as the media, we have to stop writing the narratives ourselves. The best storylines come organically.”

Despite the constant comparisons, there’s no denying that the Naismith Prep Player of the Year is carving her own path to greatness. She’s already being projected as the No. 1 pick for the 2027 WNBA Draft, bringing USC back into the spotlight after nearly three decades. 

She even hit a career milestone on November 15, reaching 1,000 points in just 38 collegiate games (two games faster than Caitlin Clark). Yet, the pressure to live up to the hype remains immense. And while she has shown nothing but brilliance, Rachel’s call for the media to ease up feels like a fair one. Especially, when all is good between the two basketball icons.

JuJu Watkins and Caitlin Clark share mutual respect despite rivalry narrative

For all the media frenzy around their supposed rivalry, there’s no bad blood between JuJu and Clark. In fact, the two stars share a bond of mutual respect. The two athletes have crossed paths on several occasions, including at the Wooden Awards, where Clark won her second trophy, and Watkins was a finalist as a freshman.

The WNBA star even gave her phone number to JuJu. “She made herself available and was like, ‘Whatever you need,’” Watkins recalled. “I was grateful for her kindness.” The 6-2 guard has nothing but admiration for CC, both as a player and as a person. “Caitlin is a great player,” she said, “but she’s also a really good person.” 

For now, she hasn’t leaned on Clark too much. “I’m sure she’s adjusting to the [WNBA], so I don’t want to bother her,” she said. “But if I ever need to, I’ll make sure I reach out.” Moreover, Lindsay Gotlieb also reached out to the reigning WNBA ROTY for advice on how to handle the media pressure JuJu is already facing in her sophomore year. According to the head coach, she is following exactly what the University of Iowa did to embrace the popularity that comes with the big name like JuJu Watkins.

Additionally, Watkins recently joined Clark as a face of State Farm, becoming the brand’s second NIL signee in the entire NCAA. While Clark dominated the spotlight last year, the Angelino is proving she’s worthy of the same stage. So, while the media may be intent on crafting a Clark-Watkins rivalry, it’s clear that both athletes are focused on their own journeys and on supporting each other along the way.