JuJu Watkins Becomes First Sierra Canyon Athlete to Have Jersey Retired
In a gym that has seen some of the biggest names in modern basketball history, JuJu Watkins has officially risen above them all. On Friday, Jan. 9, Sierra Canyon School immortalized Watkins by retiring her No. 12 jersey, marking the first time the prestigious program has ever bestowed the honor upon a student-athlete.
The ceremony took place at halftime during a high-stakes boys’ basketball game between Sierra Canyon and Notre Dame/Sherman Oaks, a fitting backdrop for a player who often drew national television audiences during her own prep career.
Watkins, currently a superstar guard for the USC Trojans, sat on the Trailblazer bench one last time before being escorted to midcourt to witness her jersey being unveiled in the rafters.
Her legacy at Sierra Canyon is the stuff of legend. During her junior year, she led the team to an Open Division state title and a 30-2 record. She followed that up with a senior campaign where she averaged 27.3 points and 13.8 rebounds per game, including a historic 60-point performance on her Senior Night.
“Watkins represents the pinnacle of female athletic and academic excellence at Sierra Canyon," the school said in a statement. Her trophy case from her time as a Trailblazer includes every major honor: McDonald’s All-American, Gatorade National Player of the Year, and Naismith Prep Player of the Year.
The event drew a star-studded crowd, including Washington Commanders quarterback Jayden Daniels, highlighting Watkins' status as a cultural icon beyond the court. Despite being sidelined recently while recovering from an injury, her impact on the game was palpable as fans delivered a sustained standing ovation.
By retiring her number, Sierra Canyon has set a new standard. While the school has produced numerous NBA players—including Marvin Bagley III and Bronny James—it is Watkins who stands alone as the first to have her number permanently removed from rotation. For many in attendance, the ceremony was more than just a tribute; it was a testament to the rising power and visibility of Black women in sports.
