Juju Watkins Turns Heartbreak Into Hope After Season-Ending Injury
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NCAA, College League, USA Womens Basketball: NCAA Tournament First Round-UNC Greensboro at Southern California Mar 22, 2025 Los Angeles, California, USA USC Trojans guard JuJu Watkins 12 during the second quarter of an NCAA Tournament game against the UNC Greensboro Spartans at Galen Center. Los Angeles Galen Center California USA, EDITORIAL USE ONLY PUBLICATIONxINxGERxSUIxAUTxONLY Copyright: xRobertxHanashirox 20250322_cec_wr6_092
A season-ending injury has sidelined USC star Juju Watkins, but it has not stopped her momentum. Instead of focusing on heartbreak, Watkins is using her recovery to become a stronger leader and build her brand off the court.
At a launch event of her PE colorway on February 18, Watkins opened up about herself and the team to ESPN reporter Ari Chambers.
“Honestly, I think I've really been able to get close to so many girls on the team this year just because I have so much time and I can really put my attention into them”, the Trojans’ 12 said. “Helping them get better in whatever they need from me, just being the person for them.”
Watkins took the NCAA by storm ever since her debut, averaging 23.9 ppg and 6.8 rebounds till March 2025. But a torn ACL forced her to sit out the whole season, which she announced in September.
But that did not stop her growth as a player and a leader, despite the inactivity. She shared what led to that.
“I’m definitely growing as a leader… I think just having more appreciation for the game. I think my love for the game has definitely grown. I miss it so, just being able to grow maturity-wise, can’t wait till I’m back.”
The 20-year-old is expected to return for the 2026-27 season as a senior at USC. However, she has kept her hands busy in the meantime.
What Has Juju Watkins Been Up to in 2026
Having given lesser time on the hardwood, Watkins is actively engaging in multiple high-profile activities this year. She has recently collaborated with LeBron James and launched the Nike LeBron NXXT Gen "Silver Lining".
On February 15, her PE was unveiled during a launch event hosted by Nike at the Nike Community Door in Watts, Los Angeles. The community-focused event and the shoe both emphasised Watkins’ Watts roots.
Watkins’ involvement with her team and her off-court activities confirm that she’s making the best out of her time. She’s strengthening her brand, ahead of her next season with the Trojans and the gradual transition to the W league.
Written by
Deblina Roy
Edited by
Siddharth Shirwadkar