💔 JuJu Watkins Suffers Torn ACL During NCAA Tournament Game
In a moment that left everyone stunned, USC’s JuJu Watkins was carried off the court Monday night after suffering a torn ACL during the Trojans’ NCAA Tournament matchup against Mississippi State.
The injury happened early in the first quarter as JuJu was driving to the basket.
She planted her right leg—then suddenly collapsed in pain. No contact.
Just an awkward bend of the knee and you knew immediately… something was wrong.
The Galen Center went completely silent as she clutched her knee and cried out in pain.
“I’d be lying if I told you I wasn’t rattled seeing JuJu lying on the floor and crying,” USC coach Lindsay Gottlieb said after the game.
JuJu was helped off the court by staff with USC up 13-2.
Later, a team spokesperson confirmed the worst: she tore her ACL and will need surgery.
👑 Who Is JuJu Watkins?
If you follow women’s hoops, then you know JuJu Watkins is that girl.
The 6’2” sophomore has been lighting it up all season, averaging 24.6 points per game and leading USC to one of its best seasons in recent history.
She’s not just a scorer—she’s a force, a leader, and one of the most exciting players in the game right now.
Her injury isn’t just a blow to USC—it hits the entire women’s basketball community.
Even Mississippi State coach Sam Purcell said, “My prayers and thoughts are with JuJu. You never want to see that, especially what she means for women’s basketball.”
💪🏽 What’s Next For JuJu?
JuJu will undergo surgery and begin rehab.
It’s a tough road ahead, but if anyone can bounce back stronger, it’s her.
She’s got grit, talent, and a whole army of fans sending love her way.
🗣️ Social Media Reacts
Prayers for Juju! 🥺🙏🏽
— Angel Reese (@Reese10Angel) March 25, 2025
Me finding out JuJu Watkins tore her ACL. pic.twitter.com/EUBIlxtxfZ
— Austin (@AustinPlanet) March 25, 2025
Torn ACL IKYFL dawg I hate this so much for JuJu Watkins. Praying for her mental and recovery ! She will come back stronger and wiser than ever! pic.twitter.com/UaljUOkzph
— Chris Williamson (@CWilliamson44) March 25, 2025
They confirmed Juju Watkins tore her ACL. This not fair man just take mine for now 💔 pic.twitter.com/bAK4CmnQ69
— 𝑫𝒂𝒗𝒊𝒅🖤💫 (@DaviddLovesSosa) March 25, 2025
It’s actually nasty work how major injuries are happening to major women’s college basketball players that everyone tunes in to watch . Azzi fudd and Paige beuckers ACL tears a few years ago now juju Watkins
— John (@iam_johnw) March 25, 2025
JuJu Watkins torn ACL pic.twitter.com/p3U8PT6Q71
— LakeShowYo (@LakeShowYo) March 25, 2025
I woke up to juju getting a torn acl.. what the actual.. pic.twitter.com/n9rKBqq1yM
— naiskii🌃 (@fw_fineballers) March 25, 2025
Wishing JuJu Watkins a full and speedy recovery.
Women’s basketball isn’t the same without her. 💔🙏🏽
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