USC Star JuJu Watkins to Sit Out 2025-26 Season for Recovery

Los Angeles, CA — JuJu Watkins, the standout guard for USC, announced on Sunday she will miss the entire 2025-26 college basketball season to focus on recovering from a torn ACL. This decision comes after Watkins sustained her injury on March 24 during the second round of the 2025 NCAA Tournament against Mississippi State.

In a heartfelt message shared on social media, Watkins expressed gratitude for the support she has received during her recovery. “These last few months have been filled with a lot of healing, rest, and reflection,” Watkins wrote. “Recovering from this injury hasn’t been easy, and I want to say thank you—your love, support, and kind words have truly lifted me up during one of the most challenging times in my life.”

Watkins, who was the 2025 Naismith National Player of the Year and a consensus first-team All-American, averaged 23.9 points, 6.8 rebounds, and 3.4 assists during the 2024-25 season. Her performance helped the Trojans achieve a 28-3 record, culminating in a No. 1 seed in the NCAA tournament.

While the typical recovery period for a torn ACL ranges from nine to 12 months, Watkins has prioritized her health. She confirmed she is following the advice of her doctors and trainers to ensure a full recovery. “I’m excited to keep putting the work in to come back even stronger,” she shared.

The USC basketball program will certainly feel her absence this season. Furthermore, Watkins is not eligible for the WNBA draft until 2027, indicating she plans to return to USC for the 2026-27 season.