LOS ANGELES – JuJu Watkins, a rising star of USC Women’s Basketball, has suffered a devastating setback. Sources have confirmed that Watkins tore her ACL during USC’s second-round NCAA tournament game against Mississippi State, an injury that will require season-ending surgery.
The news comes as a significant blow for the Trojans, who have been riding high on Watkins’ stellar performances all season. The sophomore, who averaged 24.6 points, 7.0 rebounds, and 3.5 assists per game, was widely regarded as a key contender for National Player of the Year and the driving force behind USC’s 30-3 campaign.
A Heartbreaking Moment on the Court
The injury occurred just five minutes into USC’s dominant 96-59 victory over Mississippi State, which propelled them into the Sweet 16 for the second consecutive year. Watkins was attacking the basket on a fast break when her right knee buckled after being fouled. She immediately collapsed on the court, clutching her knee in pain.
The Galen Center crowd watched in stunned silence as Watkins was carried off the court by team trainers. USC coach Lindsay Gottlieb said, “I’d be lying if I told you that I wasn’t rattled seeing JuJu on the floor crying. This is a human game, and it’s hard to see someone you care about go through that.”
Despite Watkins’ exit, the Trojans rallied behind a career-best performance from forward Kiki Iriafen, who scored 36 points to lead the team to victory. Iriafen credited the team’s resilience to their desire to honor Watkins. “We didn’t want to let her down,” Iriafen said. “We just want to keep dancing, whatever it takes.”
The Impact of Watkins’ Absence
Watkins has been nothing short of transformational for USC. Her leadership and immense talent not only elevated the Trojans to a No. 1 seed in this year’s NCAA tournament but also energized fans and elevated the profile of the program.
Coach Gottlieb expressed the deep significance of Watkins’ contributions beyond basketball. “She’s so much more than her talent; she’s galvanized this entire program, this city. That’s what’s truly generational about her.”
Without Watkins, USC faces a daunting challenge moving forward. The team will need to lean heavily on its depth and other standout players to continue their postseason campaign.
What’s Next for Watkins?
Watkins is expected to undergo surgery soon and will begin rehabilitation immediately after. While the recovery process for an ACL tear is lengthy, Watkins’ youth and drive offer hope for a strong comeback.
Her teammates and coaches remain committed to channeling her spirit and determination as they strive to advance in the tournament. For Watkins, the road to recovery may have just begun, but her influence on USC basketball will undoubtedly continue to resonate both on and off the court.
USC coach Lindsay Gottlieb summed it up best, saying, “We’re heartbroken, but this is not the end for JuJu Watkins. Her story is far from over.”
Significance for NCAA Women’s Basketball
Watkins’ absence will undoubtedly be felt not just by USC but across the NCAA landscape. An immensely talented player, her contributions have helped boost the visibility of women’s basketball and inspire the next generation of players. While her season may have ended prematurely, her impact on the sport remains vast.
USC fans and the basketball community at large are rallying behind her during this difficult time, confident that Watkins will return stronger and more determined than ever.
Stay tuned as USC pushes forward in the tournament, and keep an eye on updates as JuJu begins her path to recovery.
Caption: JuJu Watkins, a powerhouse for the USC Trojans, during a thrilling match earlier this season.
Caption: USC teammates rally together following JuJu Watkins’ injury during their second-round victory.
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