JuJu Watkins’ ACL Injury Leads To USC Star’s Unfortunate Announcement For 2025-26 Season: “I Will Sit Out”

    JuJu Watkins is one of the most talented players in women’s basketball. Ever since her arrival in college basketball, Watkins has showed her prowess. Many believe Watkins is the obvious 1st draft pick in her class.

    However, one thing that has been a bit of roadblock for JuJu has been injuries. Watkins has face multiple small injuries over the span of her career. Unfortunately last season she suffered an injury that put her out of the remaining season. As USC fans were looking forward to seeing their star back in action, JuJu Watkins announced a saddening news for the upcoming season.

     

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    Watkins, obviously distraught, shared a heartfelt message for USC and her fans. She expressed positivity in this trying time. She took to Instagram to share the message.

    “These last few months have been filled with a lot of healing, rest, and reflection. Recovering from this injury hasn’t been easy, and I want to say thank you – your love, support, and kind words have truly lifted me up during one of the most challenging times in my life. Because you’ve been with me every step of the way. I wanted you to hear it from me directly that following the advice of my doctors and trainers, I will sit out this season and fully focus on continuing to recover so I can come back to the game I love.”

    “I’m incredibly thankful for my family, teammates, coaches, the USC training personnel, Jason, Shane, and everyone who’s continued to support me every day through this journey. I’m excited to keep putting the work in to come back even stronger.” JuJu Watkins shared.

    What happened to JuJu Watkins?

    JuJu Watkins suffered an ACL tear towards to end of last season. During the 2nd round game vs Mississippi State, JuJu tore her ACL while running to the other end of the court. She planted her leg while running and cut to avoid an opponent. Unfortunately the knee gave way and she immediately went down in pain, holding her knee. She was averaging 23.9 points, 6.8 rebounds and 3.4 assists before her season was cut short due to the devastating injury.

    USC Trojans guard JuJu Watkins (12) reacts to a call by officials during the first quarter of their game in the Acrisure Series in Palm Desert, Calif., Wednesday, Nov. 27, 2024.
    USC Trojans guard JuJu Watkins (12) reacts to a call by officials during the first quarter of their game in the Acrisure Series in Palm Desert, Calif., Wednesday, Nov. 27, 2024.

    Her recovery was estimated to be around 12 months. But as it turns out, JuJu Watkins’ ACL injury will keep her out for the entirety of 2025-26 season. College basketball world wishes for a speedy recovery for one of basketball’s most brilliant players.

    Read more:

    Azzi Fudd Opens Up About Relationship With JuJu Watkins, Olivia Miles, and Ta’Niya Latson at Basketball Summit

    ‘All 10s’ ‘So Cutesy’: Fans Gush Over Azzi Fudd, JuJu Watkins, Sarah Strong and Other WBB Star’s Over Unrivaled Summit Recap

    “Dawn [Staley] Blew It” “Chemistry Isn’t Gonna Work”: Fans React As Top 2026 Prospect Saniyah Hall Joins Juju Watkins’ USC

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