When JuJu Watkins went down during a crucial NCAA tournament game on March 24, 2025, with what would later be diagnosed as a torn ACL, it wasn’t just a blow to her—but to the entire women’s basketball world. The game, against Mississippi State, was intense, her USC team was rattled, and fans held their breath, unsure of what this meant for the future of one of the sport’s brightest stars. But if there’s one thing JuJu Watkins has shown throughout her career, it’s that resilience runs deep.
The Injury That Shook the Game
The moment was chilling. JuJu, a future WNBA prospect and USC’s superstar, collapsed on the court, clutching her knee in pain. It was a fast-paced, high-stakes game that promised to propel her team further into the tournament, but suddenly, everything changed. The diagnosis came in: a torn ACL.
For JuJu, this injury wasn’t just a physical setback—it was a devastating blow to a season that had already seen her dominate as a sophomore, averaging 23.9 points, 6.8 rebounds, and 3.4 assists per game. She was on track to win the prestigious Wooden Award and was a favorite to be selected No. 1 in the upcoming WNBA draft. Her team, USC, had championship aspirations, but now those dreams were clouded by her absence.
The injury occurred during a high-stakes NCAA tournament game against Mississippi State on March 24, 2025. JuJu was visibly writhing in pain as her teammates gathered around her. The sight of her being carried off the court sent a wave of disbelief throughout the basketball community. Coach Lindsay Gottlieb later spoke on the emotional toll it took on the team, but also emphasized the “toughness, talent, and competitive spirit” JuJu had instilled in them all season long.
What This Means for Her Career
While this injury may have stunned the sports world, it’s important to remember that JuJu Watkins is more than just her basketball ability—she’s a fighter. She’s shown time and again that she can overcome adversity and come back stronger. Just as players like Paige Bueckers and Olivia Miles proved, an ACL tear doesn’t define an athlete’s career. It’s a setback, yes, but it’s also an opportunity for recovery, growth, and resilience.
With the typical recovery time being around 12 months, JuJu will miss the 2025-2026 season. However, despite this injury, she’s still eligible for the 2027 WNBA draft, and her future remains as bright as ever. The sports world is already speculating about her comeback, knowing her talent, drive, and resilience will undoubtedly lead to a powerful return to the game.
JuJu’s Resilience: Beyond the Court
What truly sets JuJu Watkins apart is not just her on-court skills but her strength and character. Raised by a supportive and empowering family, JuJu learned early on the importance of mental toughness. This injury, though heart-wrenching, is just another obstacle for her to conquer.
She’s known for her calm under pressure, her ability to rise above challenges, and her unrelenting work ethic. Her teammates, coaches, and fans have all witnessed her resilience in the face of adversity. And this injury is no different. JuJu’s approach to the injury has been one of quiet determination. Coach Gottlieb has repeatedly praised JuJu’s leadership, stating that her toughness is something that will continue to fuel USC’s aspirations, even as she recovers.
JuJu herself has expressed confidence in her ability to return stronger than ever, saying, “I’m going to use this time to heal and work even harder. This setback is just a step towards what’s next.” If her past accomplishments are any indication, we can expect her to defy expectations once again.
The Road to Recovery
While the physical recovery from an ACL tear is challenging, the emotional journey is equally demanding. JuJu will need to confront feelings of frustration, disappointment, and uncertainty, all while maintaining the mental toughness that has made her a star. But if there’s anything her past has shown us, it’s that JuJu is no stranger to overcoming obstacles.
Her teammates and coach are already rallying around her, supporting her through the toughest times, and assuring her that her spirit and leadership will continue to shape USC’s future. JuJu’s injury sent shockwaves through the team, but Gottlieb made it clear that “her competitive spirit has already made an impact, and we will continue to channel that as we move forward.” JuJu has also received support from analysts like Rebecca Lobo, who overcame a similar injury in her career, inspiring hope for JuJu’s recovery.
A Bright Future Ahead
In the face of adversity, JuJu Watkins’ story is one of hope, resilience, and unshakable determination. She’s not just an athlete; she’s a symbol of what it means to persevere, to rise above the toughest challenges, and to stay focused on your dreams. This injury may have temporarily halted her journey, but it will not define her legacy.
As she embarks on her recovery, we’ll continue to watch with anticipation as JuJu proves that nothing can stop her. The road ahead may be long, but knowing her, it will be full of comebacks, triumphs, and, ultimately, a return to the top of women’s basketball.
