The top-seeded USC Trojans fell to the No. 2 seed UConn Huskies in a tough 78-64 battle on Monday night in the Elite Eight of the NCAA Tournament. However, they had to face this challenge without their star player, JuJu Watkins, who missed her second consecutive game after suffering a season-ending knee injury in the first quarter of USC’s second-round matchup against Mississippi State. While the Trojans managed to secure a victory over Kansas State in the Sweet 16 without her, UConn proved to be a much greater test, led by fifth-year senior Paige Bueckers and legendary head coach Geno Auriemma, who guided the Huskies to yet another Final Four appearance.
Although Watkins was not present at the game as she continues her recovery, she shared a heartfelt 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 playing, but I couldn’t be prouder of the fight we’ve fought together. Thank you all.”
Fans responded with emotion to Watkins’ message, as many had high expectations for USC’s championship run before her injury. One supporter wrote, “You are missed, Judeaaa!” while another encouraged her, saying, “Aww JuJu, keep that spirit high.” Another comment simply read, “Aww Ju,” while a different fan added, “Te amo muito, JuJu.”
As USC shifts its focus to the offseason, a major question revolves around Watkins’ recovery timeline and potential return to the court. Given the timing of her injury, she could potentially redshirt her junior season. Regardless, her sophomore year was nothing short of remarkable, as she averaged 23.9 points, 6.8 rebounds, 3.4 assists, 2.2 steals, and 1.8 blocks per game, shooting 42.6% from the field and 32.5% from three-point range.