WNBA players and Caitlin Clark support JuJu Watkins following his ACL tear.

On March 24, 2025, USC Trojans’ standout sophomore JuJu Watkins suffered a devastating ACL tear during the first quarter of the NCAA Tournament’s second-round game against Mississippi State. This heartbreaking injury prematurely ended her remarkable season and significantly impacted USC’s championship aspirations. Watkins, who was averaging 24.6 points per game, sustained the injury just five minutes into the game while driving to the basket. She collapsed to the floor, clutching her right knee, and was unable to put weight on her leg as she was assisted off the court. Despite this setback, USC secured a commanding 96-59 victory, with teammate Kiki Iriafen stepping up to score a season-high 36 points.

The Basketball Community Rallies Around Watkins

Following the news of Watkins’ injury, an outpouring of support flooded social media, with basketball stars and fans expressing their sympathy and encouragement. Caitlin Clark, the former Iowa star and current Indiana Fever guard, took to Twitter, stating, “Sending all my thoughts and prayers to JuJu. Kid will come back stronger than ever.” Clark, who has been a vocal advocate for women’s basketball, acknowledged Watkins’ talent and expressed confidence in her recovery.

WNBA All-Star Angel Reese also showed her support, posting a heartfelt message: “Prayers for JuJu,” accompanied by emotional emojis. The injury struck a chord with many players who have faced similar setbacks in their careers. USC alum and WNBA legend Lisa Leslie also voiced her encouragement, calling Watkins a “warrior” and predicting a strong comeback for the young star.

The Impact on USC’s NCAA Tournament Hopes

Watkins was a driving force behind USC’s success this season. Her ability to score, create opportunities for teammates, and lead under pressure made her one of the most exciting players in college basketball. Her absence left a significant void for the Trojans, who had championship aspirations. While the team managed to win their second-round game, advancing without their star player became a daunting challenge.

USC’s head coach, Lindsay Gottlieb, spoke about Watkins’ impact on the team and the emotional toll of losing her: “JuJu is not just a phenomenal player; she’s the heart and soul of this team. We are heartbroken for her, but we know she will attack this rehab with the same determination that makes her great on the court.”

The Growing Concern of ACL Injuries in Women’s Basketball

Watkins’ injury brings to light a growing concern in women’s basketball—the prevalence of ACL tears. Female athletes are statistically more likely to suffer ACL injuries than their male counterparts due to various factors, including anatomical differences, hormonal fluctuations, and differences in neuromuscular control. Recent studies show that women’s basketball players are up to eight times more likely to sustain ACL injuries than male basketball players.

Despite this alarming trend, research into injury prevention and rehabilitation for female athletes remains underfunded. Only 35% of sports science studies focus on female subjects, meaning many training programs are based on research conducted on male athletes. Addressing this gap is crucial for improving injury prevention methods and ensuring the longevity of women’s basketball careers.

The Road to Recovery

Watkins now faces a challenging rehabilitation process that could take anywhere from six to twelve months. ACL recovery involves surgery, followed by extensive physical therapy to regain strength, stability, and mobility. While the journey is arduous, many athletes have successfully returned from ACL injuries stronger than before.

Notable players like Breanna Stewart and Kelsey Plum have overcome ACL tears to have successful careers. Stewart tore her ACL in 2019 while playing overseas but returned to win WNBA MVP and lead the Seattle Storm to a championship. Plum also battled through an ACL tear and came back stronger, becoming a key player for the Las Vegas Aces. Their recoveries serve as an inspiration for Watkins as she embarks on her own journey back to the court.

The Bigger Picture: Women’s Basketball Continues to Grow

Watkins’ injury, while unfortunate, underscores the increasing visibility and competitiveness of women’s basketball. The overwhelming response from WNBA players, college athletes, and fans highlights the sport’s growth and the tight-knit community that supports its athletes. With stars like Clark, Reese, and Watkins leading the way, women’s basketball is experiencing a surge in popularity, drawing record-breaking viewership and media attention.

The support for Watkins also showcases the unity within the women’s basketball community. Unlike in the past, where injuries could sideline a player without much public acknowledgment, today’s social media landscape allows for a more connected and supportive environment. This shift reflects the broader movement toward recognizing and valuing female athletes on the same level as their male counterparts.

Looking Ahead

While Watkins’ absence from the remainder of the NCAA Tournament is a significant blow, her journey to recovery will be closely followed by fans and analysts alike. Her resilience, combined with advancements in sports medicine, gives her a strong chance of returning to the game she loves. As USC and the basketball world rally around her, the hope is that Watkins will make a full recovery and continue to be a force in women’s basketball.

For now, USC must adjust to playing without their star, and the basketball community will eagerly await Watkins’ return. If history is any indication, this setback will only fuel her determination to come back stronger than ever. The impact of her injury extends beyond just one player—it serves as a reminder of the need for continued investment in women’s sports science, athlete support, and injury prevention strategies.

Watkins’ journey is just beginning, and with the backing of her peers, mentors, and fans, the future remains bright for one of the most promising young stars in the game.