USC Star JuJu Watkins Faces Season-Ending Knee Injury Against Mississippi State: What It Means and Next Steps

LOS ANGELES — USC star JuJu Watkins is set for surgery after suffering a significant knee injury during a recent game against Mississippi State. The injury occurred in the first quarter of USC’s dominant 96-59 victory when Watkins collided with a Bulldogs player while driving to the basket.

Watkins landed hard on her right knee and quickly fell to the floor in pain. Teammates and coaches rushed to her side before she was helped off the court without putting any weight on her injured leg. Freshman Avery Howell stepped up to take the foul shots following the incident.

Before her exit, Watkins had tallied 3 points, 2 assists, and 1 rebound. Known for her resilience, she previously faced a minor injury in the first round against UNC Greensboro but continued to play, remarking on the physical toll of the season.

Remarkably, she has played every game since starting her college career, appearing in all 34 games as a freshman and starting 33 this season. Her drive has caught the attention of many, and she was named a unanimous first-team AP All-American for the second year in a row. This season, she reached an impressive milestone, becoming the first NCAA Division I, WNBA, and NBA player to record 38 points, 11 rebounds, 8 blocks, and 5 assists in a single game since 2000.

Watkins is currently averaging 24.6 points, 7 rebounds, and 3.5 assists per game. Earlier this season, she also became the fastest Trojan to score 1,000 career points, showcasing her skill and determination.

USC, holding the No. 1 seed for two consecutive seasons, aims for its first Final Four appearance since 1986. The impact of Watkins’s absence will surely be felt as the Trojans advance in the tournament.

In similar scenarios, it’s noteworthy that player injuries can shift a team’s dynamics significantly. A recent survey showed that about 60% of fans feel the absence of star players detracts from their team’s chances in crucial games.

For more insights on injuries in sports, consider exploring articles from organizations like the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons for expert opinions on recovery and rehabilitation strategies.

Stay tuned for updates on Watkins’s recovery and the Trojans’ journey in the tournament.



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USC Trojans, WNBA, Women's College Basketball