What happened to JuJu Watkins? What to know about USC injury in women's March Madness
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Unfortunate news struck the women's college basketball world on Monday night, as USC guard JuJu Watkins suffered a season-ending knee injury in the Trojans' second-round win over Mississippi State.
USC later announced Watkins would need surgery and will begin rehabilitation shortly after.
Watkins had a fast-break chance midway through the first quarter against Mississippi State but was fouled before landing awkwardly. She grabbed her knee and was in obvious pain before being carried to the locker room.
The national player of the year candidate finishes her sophomore season averaging 23.9 points, 6.8 rebounds and 3.4 assists per game on 42.6% shooting. USC still managed to handily defeat 9-seed Mississippi State 96-64, as forward Kiki Iriafen stepped up and scored 36 points in Watkins' absence.
Iriafen will certainly be important for the Trojans moving forward, as they prepare for a Sweet 16 matchup with 5-seed Kansas State.
Here's everything to know about Watkins' injury:
What happened to JuJu Watkins?
According to ESPN's Shams Charania, Watkins suffered a torn ACL in USC's women's NCAA Tournament game against Mississippi State on Monday night.
USC didn't confirm the exact injury, but did note she'd undergo surgery and miss the remainder of the season.
Watkins attempted to score on a fast break but was fouled and fell awkwardly before instantly grabbing her knee and grimacing in pain. She was then carried off to the locker room and didn't return.
What is JuJu Watkins' injury?
Watkins reportedly tore her ACL, according to ESPN's Shams Charania. USC, however, has not confirmed the exact injury.
It was pretty clear Watkins' injury was significant, as she was down on the court in pain for multiple moments before she was carried to the locker room. The injury is season-ending, USC's women's basketball program announced.
Watkins finished the game with three points and two assists in five minutes of action.