JuJu Watkins wins 2025 Wooden Award, becomes consensus National Player of Year

USC sophomore guard JuJu Watkins has been awarded the prestigious John R. Wooden Award, recognizing her as the nation's outstanding women's basketball player, surpassing finalists including UConn's Paige Bueckers and UCLA's Lauren Betts. Watkins, who averaged 23.9 points, 6.8 rebounds, and demonstrated impactful performance throughout the season, is now a consensus National Player of the Year after also earning the Naismith and AP Player of the Year honors. Tragically, she suffered a season-ending ACL injury during the NCAA tournament, which has raised concerns about her availability for the next season. Despite this setback, her contributions led the Trojans to a strong 28-3 record and a first seed in the tournament. Her injury is expected to prompt a significant rebuild for the USC team as they plan for the future without her in the coming season. The award was decided by a national panel of sportswriters and sportscasters, with voting concluding shortly before the announcement.