JuJu Watkins suffered a season-ending torn ACL in her right knee during USC’s big win over No. 9 Mississippi State in the NCAA tournament on Monday night. Watkins went down in the first quarter after a collision on a fast break and had to be carried off the court. Despite her injury, USC cruised to a blowout victory led by Kiki Iriafen’s 36 points. Watkins will miss the rest of the tournament and likely the start of next season as well after undergoing surgery. USC head coach Lindsey Gottlieb did not provide updates on Watkins’ condition after the game, but it was confirmed that she will be out for the rest of the tournament. The Trojans will now move on to the Sweet 16 to face No. 5 Kansas State. Despite the tension between the two teams and booing from fans following Watkins’ injury, the Trojans are determined to continue their tournament success and make a deep run without their star player. Although Watkins’ absence will be felt, USC remains optimistic about their chances moving forward.
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