JuJu Watkins Named AP Player of Year Amid Season-Ending Injury

USC Trojans star JuJu Watkins, despite a season-ending ACL injury that occurred during the NCAA Tournament, has received significant accolades for her performance this year. She was named the AP Player of the Year, becoming the first Trojan to earn this honor and the fourth sophomore in NCAA history to do so. Additionally, she earned the Naismith National Player of the Year award and finished her season averaging 23.9 points, 6.8 rebounds, and 3.4 assists per game. Head coach Lindsay Gottlieb emphasized the team's focus on reloading for the next season as Watkins begins her recovery process. The Trojans advanced to the Elite Eight but were ultimately defeated by UConn. As Watkins works through rehabilitation, her impressive achievements this season have set a high standard for her future in college basketball.