Angel Reese, Caitlin Clark react to USC star JuJu Watkins heartbreaking injury
JuJu Watkins, the Southern California guard, was on a trajectory to stardom in the college basketball world before suffering a devastating knee injury during a second-round game in the NCAA women’s tournament. The 19-year-old was carried off the court in the first quarter of USC’s game against Mississippi State, with reports later confirming that she had torn her right ACL, ending her season prematurely. Watkins is set to undergo surgery and start rehabilitation to recover from the injury.
The news of Watkins’ injury sent shockwaves across the sports world, with WNBA star Angel Reese and reigning WNBA Rookie of the Year Caitlin Clark among those offering messages of support to the young guard. Reese took to X, formerly known as Twitter, to express her prayers for JuJu, while Clark sent her thoughts and prayers, confident that Watkins would come back stronger than ever.
Watkins’ injury occurred early in the game as she was fouled on a fast break, causing her right knee to buckle and leading to a painful fall. Despite USC’s victory securing a spot in the Sweet 16, the loss of Watkins is expected to have a significant impact on the team’s championship aspirations. The talented guard had an outstanding season, averaging 23.9 points, 6.8 rebounds, and 3.4 assists per game.
During her freshman year, Watkins averaged an impressive 27.1 points per game, earning her Big Ten Player of the Year honors and unanimous first-team All-American recognition. With Watkins sidelined, USC will face a tough challenge against No. 5 Kansas State in the Sweet 16.
As the college basketball community rallies around JuJu Watkins in her recovery journey, the heartbreaking injury serves as a reminder of the fragility of sports. Watkins’ resilience and determination will undoubtedly see her through this challenging time, and fans are eagerly awaiting her return to the court.
