The USC Trojans, the No. 1 seed in the NCAA Tournament, faced a tough 78-64 loss to the No. 2 seed UConn Huskies in the Elite Eight on Monday night. Unfortunately, they had to play without their star player, JuJu Watkins, who missed her second consecutive game due to a season-ending knee injury sustained during the first quarter of USC’s second-round matchup against Mississippi State. While the Trojans managed to defeat Kansas State in the Sweet 16 without her, the challenge posed by UConn, led by Paige Bueckers and coach Geno Auriemma, proved to be too much.
Although Watkins wasn’t present at the game as she continues her rehabilitation, she shared an emotional message with her teammates and fans after the loss. “Thank you all for the incredible love and support,” Watkins expressed. “Seeing all your messages and kind words has meant the world to me – y’all have given me so much hope. Right now, my heart is with my teammates – I wish I could have been out there balling, but I couldn’t be prouder of the fight we’ve fought together: Thank you all.”
Her heartfelt words sparked a strong emotional response from fans, many of whom had been hopeful for a national championship run for USC before her injury. “You are missed Judeaaa!” one fan posted. “Aww JuJu. Keep that spirit high,” another added. Others echoed similar sentiments, showing their support for Watkins during this difficult time, with one fan commenting, “Te amo muito JuJu.”
Looking ahead, the main concern for USC is the timeline for Watkins’ return to the court. Due to the timing of her injury, she could potentially face a redshirt year for her junior season. However, her sophomore year was nothing short of remarkable. Watkins averaged 23.9 points, 6.8 rebounds, 3.4 assists, 2.2 steals, and 1.8 blocks per game, with a shooting percentage of 42.6% from the field and 32.5% from three-point range, making her one of the top players in college basketball.
As USC turns its focus to the offseason, all eyes will be on Watkins’ recovery and potential return to the court for her junior season. Fans will continue to support her through her rehabilitation, hoping for her full recovery and a return to the game she loves.
