
USC’s Juju Watkins Injured in March Madness Clash with Mississippi State
In a dramatic turn of events during the NCAA Women's Basketball Tournament, USC's star player Juju Watkins was injured in a game against Mississippi State. The incident, which occurred in the second quarter, saw Watkins being carried off the court, casting a shadow over the Trojans' campaign.
The injury not only halted the game momentarily but also sparked an ugly scene post-match, with tensions running high between the teams. The aftermath of Watkins' injury has led to a significant shift in the tournament's landscape, with USC's odds of winning the title now longer, while UConn emerges as the new favorite.
The sports community and fans have expressed concern for Watkins, with many praising her resilience and the impact she has had on women's college basketball. The incident has also reignited discussions on player safety and the intensity of competitive sports.
Detailed USC star JuJu Watkins suffers season-ending knee injury
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Will Juju Watkins play the next game?
USC star JuJu Watkins suffered a torn ACL during her team's 96-59 win over No. 9 seed Mississippi State in the second round of the 2025 Women's NCAA Tournament, the school announced. The injury will require surgery, meaning the season for the Trojans' top player is over.
How did Juju Watkins get hurt tonight?
Everyone -- all 7,808 inside the Galen Center -- was watching. Watkins wedged herself between two Mississippi State defenders, and, in a flash, her right knee appeared to give out underneath her. She crumpled to the ground and grabbed her right knee.
Did Juju Watkins tore her ACL?
Yes, Watkins tore her anterior cruciate ligament, according to ESPN's Shams Charania.
Can USC win without Juju Watkins?
The Trojans were able to win without her in the second round, and in convincing fashion, 96-59. The Iriafen-Marshall duo is still formidable, and USC's active, swarming defense presents problems for any perimeter player. Watkins said it herself after USC's first-round victory.