USC women’s basketball star JuJu Watkins suffered a torn ACL in her right knee during the team’s second round NCAA matchup against Mississippi State. Watkins had to leave the game just five minutes in after driving to the basket and planting her right leg, causing her knee to buckle. The injury left the Galen Center silent as the star player fell to the floor in pain. Head coach Lindsay Gottlieb expressed her concern for Watkins, and by halftime, it was announced that Watkins would miss the rest of the game and undergo season-ending surgery.
Despite the devastating loss of Watkins, USC managed to secure a commanding 96-59 victory over Mississippi State to advance to the Sweet 16. Watkins was a crucial part of the team, averaging 24.6 points, 7.0 rebounds, 3.5 assists, 2.3 steals, and 1.8 blocks per game. In her absence, Kiki Iriafen stepped up, scoring a season-high 36 points and grabbing nine rebounds. Iriafen’s performance was key in helping the team secure the win and advance in the tournament, showcasing the team’s resilience in the face of adversity.
Social media reactions poured in following Watkins’ injury, with WNBA star Angel Reese among those sending messages of support to the injured player. Watkins, who was named the 2025 Big Ten Player of the Year and a unanimous All-American for the second year in a row, has garnered immense support from the basketball community. Her absence will undoubtedly be felt in women’s basketball, but the outpouring of support demonstrates the impact she has had on the sport and those around her.
The USC Trojans will have to navigate the rest of the NCAA tournament without Watkins, their star sophomore player. Coach Gottlieb and the team will need to adjust their game plan and find ways to succeed without one of their key players. Watkins’ injury highlights the physical demands and risks of playing at a high level in collegiate sports, serving as a reminder of the importance of athlete safety and well-being. The team will need to rally together and rely on their depth and resilience to continue their postseason journey without their standout player.
Mississippi State coach Sam Purcell expressed his sympathy for Watkins, acknowledging the emotional toll of witnessing a player sustain a serious injury. As competitors, both teams were affected by the injury, recognizing the impact it has on women’s basketball as a whole. The injury serves as a sobering reminder of the risks athletes face in pursuit of their goals and the need for support and empathy within the sports community. Despite the competitive nature of the game, moments of injury can evoke a sense of unity and compassion among players, coaches, and fans.
As USC moves forward in the NCAA tournament without Watkins, the team will need to come together and find ways to compensate for her absence. The loss of a key player can be a significant challenge for any team, but it also presents an opportunity for other players to step up and showcase their abilities. The resilience and determination of the Trojans will be put to the test as they navigate the remainder of the tournament without Watkins. The injury serves as a poignant reminder of the fragility of athletic careers and the importance of supporting players both on and off the court.
