Nike made a significant impact during Super Bowl LIX, airing its first commercial during the “Big Game” in 27 years. The ad debuted during the highly anticipated Eagles-Chiefs matchup and showcased a powerful lineup of women athletes, including USC superstar guard JuJu Watkins.
Her inclusion in the commercial marks her growing influence in the sports world as she continues to break records and make waves as a sophomore.
Nike’s Groundbreaking Ad Featuring JuJu Watkins
JuJu Watkins’ inclusion in Nike’s Super Bowl ad comes on the heels of an outstanding freshman year at USC last year. Nike’s X page posted a video featuring Watkins with the caption “JUJU WATKINS Hoops Phenom.”
During the 2023-2024 season, she quickly established herself as one of the top players in college basketball. Watkins played a key role in leading the “Women of Troy” to an Elite Eight appearance and earned All-American honors, cementing her place as one of the most exciting figures in the game.
The commercial featured a dynamic roster of women from both professional and college ranks, including WNBA stars Caitlin Clark, A’ja Wilson, and Sabrina Ionescu, Olympic gold medalist sprinter Sha’Carri Richardson, and world No. 1 tennis player Aryna Sabalenka.
The ad, set to Led Zeppelin’s iconic “Whole Lotta Love,” was voiced by Grammy-winning rapper Doechii. It delivers a strong message about the power of women in sports.
In addition to the 60-second anthem that aired during the Super Bowl, the campaign also included still photography and a social media extension.
Watkins’ Rising Star Power
Watkins’ success on the court has translated into a booming NIL portfolio. She has secured several major sponsorships with prominent brands, including State Farm, Nintendo, CELSIUS, Gatorade, and Funko.
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These deals reflect her growing influence in the sports world and the broader market. As one of the top athletes in college sports, Watkins has proven herself as a force to be reckoned with, both as a player and as a brand ambassador.
Watkins continues to break barriers in college basketball and beyond. Her exceptional on-court performance and expanding NIL deals reflect a bright future, and with her inclusion in such a high-profile ad, it’s clear that the world is watching her every move.
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