By exploreodisha.in 
USC’s women’s basketball team faced a significant setback during their second-round NCAA tournament game against Mississippi State on March 24, 2025, when star guard JuJu Watkins suffered a severe knee injury. Midway through the first quarter, Watkins collided with Mississippi State’s senior guard Chandler Prater during a fast break, causing her right knee to buckle awkwardly. She fell to the court, clutching her knee in pain, and was subsequently carried off by the team’s medical staff.
Watkins, a sophomore and contender for national player of the year honors, had been instrumental in USC’s successful season, averaging 24.6 points per game—second in the nation. Her injury occurred just five minutes into the game, sending shockwaves through the Galen Center crowd. Despite this, the top-seeded Trojans dominated the game, winning 96-59 and advancing to the Sweet 16. Kiki Iriafen stepped up significantly, delivering a career-high 36 points to lead USC to victory.
The injury has been diagnosed as a torn anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in her right knee, effectively ending her season. Watkins is scheduled to undergo surgery followed by a rehabilitation period. This marks a significant loss for USC, as Watkins’ contributions have been pivotal in their journey to the Sweet 16. The team will now rely on other key players, including Iriafen, as they prepare to face Kansas State in the next round.
This incident isn’t Watkins’ first encounter with injury this season. In December 2024, she temporarily left a game against Elon University after appearing to roll her ankle while fighting for a rebound. Despite the scare, she returned to lead her team to victory. Her resilience has been a hallmark of her career, and her absence will undoubtedly be felt as USC continues its tournament run.
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