The USC Trojans got off to a hot start in their second round game against Mississippi state, up 11-0 in the opening minutes. Juju Watkins, second this season in scoring at 24.6 PPG, had 3 points, 2 assists and a rebound to help the Trojans’ cause.
Then, with 4:43 left in the first quarter and USC leading 13-2, Watkins took a hard foul driving to the basket in a fast break. She crumpled to the floor and lay clutching her right knee, writhing in pain as her teammates rushed over. It was a gutwrenching sight not just for Trojans fans and players, but for all of college basketball.
JUJU WATKINS NOOOOOOO
TAKE ME INSTEAD pic.twitter.com/lYl8eyJQ8j
— Hater Report (@HaterReport_) March 25, 2025
Juju Watkins in Visible Pain as Trainers Carry Her from the Court
Trainers hurried to the court and knelt down next to Watkins. The group stayed there for a several minutes before Watkins was able to get to her feet. To do so, she needed support under either arm, and shifted her full weight to her left leg.
She departed to the locker room grimacing, with her feet completely of the ground, carried by staff.
Officials reviewed the play for a potential flagrant foul but found nothing.
In her absence, USC continued its onslaught, forcing turnovers and scoring at will. The Trojans led 28-8 after the first quarter.
But for their fans and anyone following the tournament, the much bigger issue is Watkins’ status. At first glance, given her distraught reaction, the injury looked frighteningly like an ACL tear. Without her, the Trojans do not stand much chance to advance deep into the tournament.
The winner of tonight’s game will face Kansas State in the second round.
Fans React to Potential Devastating Injury
It was a gruesome sight, and viewers quickly reacted on social media.
That did not look good
— Joe Kerr (@thec0med1an) March 25, 2025
Wtf nooo💔💔
— Big Jae🎾💫 (@BigJaePicks) March 25, 2025
BROOO NOOOO 💔💔💔 pic.twitter.com/Na3zYJb42O
— 𝓕𝓮𝓻𝓰𝔂 🦇 (@Fergycooked) March 25, 2025
Regardless of allegiance, all will be rooting for the best for Juju as the terror of a devastating update looms.
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