JuJu Watkins Injures ACL, USC Advances in March Madness

USC Trojans star guard JuJu Watkins suffered a torn ACL during the NCAA Tournament, ending her season and jeopardizing her availability for the next. This injury occurred in a dominant win over Mississippi State, where Watkins had been on the verge of breaking a major college basketball record for points scored in the first two seasons. Her absence is felt deeply across the sport, with fellow athletes and commentators expressing that it impacts not just USC but women's basketball as a whole. Watkins will undergo surgery and face a lengthy rehabilitation, potentially sidelining her for up to a year. As the Trojans advance to the Sweet 16 without their leading player, they face a challenging path ahead in the tournament, particularly against strong contenders like Kansas State and UConn. The situation has drawn widespread support for Watkins from teammates, rivals, and fans alike, highlighting her influence and importance in the game.