USC star guard JuJu Watkins has suffered a devastating season-ending injury during the second round of the NCAA Tournament against Mississippi State.
The sophomore star reportedly tore the ACL in her right knee during the Trojans’ matchup against the Bulldogs on Monday night (March 24), which will leave her sidelined for the duration of the NCAA Tournament and possibly a portion of her junior campaign.
The injury occurred just five minutes into the first half when Watkins was driving to the basket during a USC fastbreak.
JuJu Watkins #12 of the USC Trojans after an injury against the Mississippi State Bulldogs in the first half during the second round of the NCAA Women’s Basketball Tournament at Galen Center on March 24, 2025 in Los Angeles, California.
Attempting to dribble between two Mississippi State defenders, Watkins was fouled, and as she planted her foot, her right knee buckled, causing her to collapse in visible pain. She had to be carried off the court, and it was later announced that she would not return to the game.
Watkins will undergo surgery and begin rehabilitation in hopes of making a full recovery. Before exiting the game, Watkins had not scored a field goal, shooting 0-of-2, but managed to record three points on free throws, along with one rebound and two assists.
Following USC’s 96-59 victory over Mississippi State, head coach Lindsay Gottlieb shared her emotions regarding Watkins’ injury during a post-game press conference.
JuJu Watkins #12 of the USC Trojans is presented a ball by head coach Lindsay Gottlieb in recognition of scoring 1000 career points before the game against the Michigan Wolverines at Galen Center on December 29, 2024 in Los Angeles, California.
“I’d be lying if I told you that I wasn’t rattled seeing JuJu on the floor crying,” Gottlieb said. “This is a human game and so I obviously tried my best to be what I need to be for the team, but internally it’s a lot.”
She continued, “Obviously just heartbroken if there’s a serious injury for JuJu, but at the same time, I hope she can at some point see just the significance that she has here that goes so far beyond just her talent and abilities. I mean that’s really what is generational about it, the way she’s galvanized everyone.”
JuJu Watkins #12 of the USC Trojans after an injury against the Mississippi State Bulldogs in the first half during the second round of the NCAA Women’s Basketball Tournament at Galen Center on March 24, 2025 in Los Angeles, California.
Watkins, a dominant force for USC throughout the season, averaged 24.6 points, 7.0 rebounds, and 3.5 assists per game. She was named an Associated Press All-American and remains a top contender for multiple national player of the year awards. Widely considered the presumptive No. 1 overall pick in the WNBA Draft, Watkins led the Trojans to a stellar 30-3 record and a No. 1 seed in the tournament.
A host of professional and collegiate basketball stars took to social media to offer their support and wish Watkins a speedy recovery. Despite the heartbreaking injury, USC moves forward into the Sweet 16 for the second consecutive season, carrying with them the spirit and inspiration of their sidelined star.
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