JuJu Watkins Returns to USC Basketball After ACL Injury
JuJu Watkins is officially back on the court for the USC Trojans after missing last season due to a torn ACL. The star Southern California guard, who averaged 25.6 points per game across her first two seasons, is returning to a loaded roster as the team pursues its first national championship since 1984. Her journey back to competitive play has been filled with anticipation, hard work, and a renewed leadership perspective.
Visualizing the Moment: The First Basket
The anticipation of returning to game action has been on the mind of the USC star player daily as the season opener approaches. The Trojans are set to tip off their season Monday in Las Vegas against UNLV in the Hall of Fame Series.
"It’s on my mind every day," JuJu Watkins said. "So much anticipation has gone into this year. I want it really badly, but also in a healthy way. I just want to have fun and really enjoy this year."
Returning from a serious knee injury suffered in the second round of the 2025 NCAA Tournament has tested her patience, but it has also fueled her imagination. She has already envisioned what her first successful shot will feel like after months of grueling rehabilitation.
"I’ve had dreams about that every night. I might shed a tear, honestly, I can’t lie," she said. "That’ll be a really amazing feeling for me."
Evidence that she is ready to contribute immediately was clear during an exhibition game against California. JuJu Watkins scored 18 points in just 22 minutes, showing fans a glimpse of her scoring prowess.
Key Facts on the 2025-26 USC Trojans
- JuJu Watkins returns after averaging 25.6 points per game in her first two seasons.
- The No. 3 USC Trojans are hunting for their first national title since 1984.
- Jazzy Davidson, the Big Ten Freshman of the Year who averaged 17.9 points last season, joins the backcourt.
- Saniyah Hall scored 23 points, grabbed six rebounds, and recorded five steals in an exhibition win against California.
- Sara Okeke is one of three five-star recruits joining the roster under head coach Lindsay Gottlieb.
- The season opener takes place Monday in Las Vegas against UNLV.
Building Chemistry and Leadership on the Sidelines
During her recovery, JuJu Watkins found alternative ways to contribute to the squad. She took on locker room duties on the road, setting up chairs for team talks and offering vocal support from the bench, particularly to freshman standout Jazzy Davidson.
"She saw me being hard on myself and I think she saw a little bit of her in me," Jazzy Davidson said, "and so she kind of knew what it was like going through that. Being able to build the friendship that we were able to build, it’s a huge blessing."
Head coach Lindsay Gottlieb has praised the influx of talent supporting the returning star, which includes standout performances from newcomers like Saniyah Hall and Sara Okeke.
"They have proven that they’re going to be really impactful players at a high level," Lindsay Gottlieb said.
Reflecting on her time away from the floor, JuJu Watkins noted that watching from the sideline ultimately sharpened her basketball IQ and prepared her to be a more vocal leader for the No. 3-ranked program.
Frequently Asked Questions
When did JuJu Watkins suffer her ACL injury?
JuJu Watkins suffered her torn ACL during the second round of the 2025 NCAA Tournament, causing her to miss the entirety of last season.
Who are some of the key new players joining USC this season?
The roster additions include Big Ten Freshman of the Year Jazzy Davidson, guard Saniyah Hall, and five-star recruit forward Sara Okeke.
When and where is the USC season opener?
The USC Trojans season tips off on Monday in Las Vegas against UNLV as part of the Hall of Fame Series.