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In a shocking turn of events, USC basketball star JuJu Watkins has suffered a torn ACL in her right knee, sources confirm to NBA insider Shams Charania. The devastating injury comes at a crucial time in her young career, as she was making waves as one of the most promising players in women’s college basketball. Watkins, a freshman phenom, will now undergo surgery, casting a shadow over her immediate future in the sport.
A Rising Star Cut Short—For Now
JuJu Watkins has been nothing short of spectacular in her debut season at USC. Heralded as one of the best high school prospects in recent memory, she made an instant impact at the collegiate level. Averaging impressive numbers in points, rebounds, and assists, Watkins quickly became the face of USC basketball, drawing comparisons to legends such as Maya Moore and Diana Taurasi. Her ability to score at will, handle the ball under pressure, and lead her team with poise made her a standout in the NCAA.
Her injury is a significant blow not only to USC’s championship aspirations but also to women’s basketball fans who were eager to see her continue her dominant run. A torn ACL is one of the most feared injuries in sports, often requiring a lengthy recovery process that can take anywhere from nine months to a year. This means that Watkins is likely to miss the remainder of the season and possibly a portion of next year, should she decide to stay in college.
The Impact on USC’s Season
The USC Trojans, who have built their team around Watkins’ scoring prowess and leadership, will now have to recalibrate their strategy. Watkins was not just the team’s leading scorer; she was the heart and soul of the squad. Losing her at this critical juncture means head coach Lindsay Gottlieb will need to find a way to fill the void—something that is much easier said than done.
USC was considered a strong contender for a deep NCAA tournament run, especially with Watkins leading the charge. Without her, the Trojans’ offensive firepower takes a major hit, and their chances of making it to the Final Four appear significantly diminished. While USC has talented players on its roster, replacing someone of Watkins’ caliber is nearly impossible.
What’s Next for Watkins?
Following surgery, Watkins will enter the grueling rehabilitation process that comes with an ACL tear. The recovery timeline will depend on multiple factors, including the severity of the tear, how her body responds to rehab, and whether she faces any setbacks along the way.
This injury also raises questions about her future—will she return to USC for another season, or will she declare for the WNBA Draft when eligible? Some players opt to sit out and rehab before making the jump to the pros, while others choose to come back stronger for another collegiate season. Given Watkins’ immense talent, WNBA teams will still keep a close eye on her recovery, as she is widely considered a future top draft pick.
The Bigger Picture in Women’s Basketball
Watkins’ injury is a reminder of how fragile an athlete’s career can be. Just weeks ago, she was lighting up the court, dazzling fans with her skills. Now, she faces months of rehabilitation, uncertainty, and the mental battle that comes with overcoming a major injury.
The sports world will be rallying behind Watkins, hoping to see her make a full recovery and return even stronger. She has already proven to be a fighter on the court, and this setback will be just another challenge for her to overcome.
For now, USC and women’s basketball fans will have to wait and hope for the best. Watkins’ journey is far from over—it’s just taking an unexpected detour.
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