USC Trojans guard JuJu Watkins, who suffered a season-ending torn ACL in the team’s second-round victory, communicated with her teammates via FaceTime before their Sweet 16 game. The Trojans are set to face Paige Bueckers and the UConn Huskies for a spot in the Final Four on Monday night.
Watkins, one of the nation’s top players, was injured during USC’s 96-59 win over Mississippi State in the second round, and the Trojans will have to continue without her in the NCAA Tournament. Despite her absence, the Trojans managed a 67-61 victory over Kansas State in their first game without Watkins, advancing to the Elite Eight against UConn.
Following the win, USC coach Lindsay Gottlieb shared that Watkins spoke to the team through FaceTime before and after the Kansas State game.
Gottlieb Keeping JuJu’s Spirit Alive with the Team
While Watkins couldn’t play in the game, she still sent a message to her teammates. Gottlieb explained, “I was just FaceTiming her after the game in the locker room. She expressed how proud she was of everyone—the coaching staff, the players, and everything we’ve accomplished.”
Watkins had been the Trojans’ leading scorer and assister, averaging 23.9 points and 3.4 assists per game, and was also third in rebounds with 6.8 per game. Her absence is a significant loss, especially as she was a strong contender for National Player of the Year.
“It was tough hearing JuJu on FaceTime in the locker room, but there were a lot of smiles,” Gottlieb said. “My daughter even blew kisses to her and asked, ‘JuJu’s not hurt?’ I told her, ‘No, she’s still hurt, but today she’s happy and with us.’”
Gottlieb emphasized how the team’s resilience reflects their strong bond. “We’re trying to keep her spirit with us. JuJu is an incredible person, and the way the team has responded shows so much about them, but also about her and the deep chemistry they share.”
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