USC women’s basketball star JuJu Watkins joined Boston Legacy FC’s investor group, becoming the first college athlete to invest in a women’s professional sports team.
“Juju’s investment marks a groundbreaking moment for women’s sports and the power of NIL,” said Jennifer Epstein, controlling owner of Boston Legacy. “She’s showing that today’s student-athletes aren’t just building their own brands — they’re shaping the future of the game.”
The Legacy’s high-profile investor group includes actress Elizabeth Banks, Olympic gymnast Aly Raisman, Chicago Bears quarterback Caleb Williams, Indiana Fever forward Aliyah Boston and Boston Celtics General Manager Brad Stevens.
Watkins joins Boston Legacy ahead of the NWSL team’s inaugural season in 2026, with a home opener scheduled for March 14. As renovations remain underway at White Stadium, the Legacy will compete at Gillette Stadium for the 2026 season.
One of the top women’s college basketball players last season – earning the Naismith Trophy, AP National Player of the Year, All-America First Team and Big Ten Player of the Year, among other numerous accolades – Watkins’ NCAA Tournament run with USC was cut short with a torn ACL in the second round. Watkins will sit out the 2025-2026 season to recover.
