Juju Watkins steps away for the season, and the USC loses its brightest star

The NCAA will have to move forward without one of its most electrifying talents. Juju Watkins, USC’s star shooting guard, announced she won’t play this season after tearing her ACL back in March during the second round of the college tournament. The injury, which forced her to leave the game on a stretcher, marked a turning point in what had already been a remarkable early career.

Watkins shared the decision herself on social media, later backed by USC’s coaching staff. “These past few months have been filled with healing, rest, and reflection,”. Wrote the player, thanking everyone who supported her through recovery. According to sports outlet Marca, head coach Lindsay Gottlieb made it clear: “Juju’s health and well-being are the priority.” And while she won’t suit up, Juju Watkins will remain a key presence on the bench.

JuJu Watkins will miss the entire 2025–26 season 😔

(h/t @swishcultures_ ) pic.twitter.com/ddLKU3yFi4

— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) September 29, 2025

A major blow for USC

Juju Watkins’ absence is a tough hit for USC’s ambitions. In just 38 games, she became the second-fastest player in Division I women’s history to reach 1,000 career points. She averaged 23.9 points and 3.4 assists per game. Leading the Trojans to a Big Ten title and a strong NCAA tournament run. But her impact went far beyond the box score—she was the team’s voice, rhythm, and competitive heartbeat.

Even though Juju Watkins won’t wear the jersey this season, she won’t be far from the action. Her role as an emotional leader and tactical reference will be crucial for a squad now forced to reinvent itself without its top scorer. Coach Gottlieb praised her maturity and resilience throughout rehab and believes Watkins will continue to inspire younger teammates.

Juju Watkins is expected to return for the 2026 season, and all signs point to a comeback with even more fire. While USC adjusts its system to face the year without her, Watkins is already writing a new chapter. One shaped by recovery, which for her, is the most important game right now.

JuJu Watkins has announced that she will not compete during the 2025-26 season to focus on her recovery from injury.

Full release ⤵️

— USC Women’s Basketball (@USCWBB) September 29, 2025