JuJu Watkins’ standout season with USC came to a sudden end when she suffered a torn ACL during the second round of the 2025 NCAA Tournament against Mississippi State. The injury, which happened in the first quarter, forced Watkins out of March Madness and left fans and teammates stunned. As she begins her recovery, support from WNBA legends has helped keep her spirits high, highlighting the impact she has made in college basketball.
Juju Watkins Receives Encouragement From Candace Parker and Cheryl Miller
Recently, Watkins received advice from two of the sport’s biggest names. On the All Facts No Brakes Podcast, hosted by Keyshawn Johnson, Candace Parker and Cheryl Miller offered guidance to the USC star. Miller emphasized the importance of resilience, saying, “JuJu is smart, tenacious. Give yourself grace recovering from that ACL.”
Parker, drawing from her own experience, cautioned Watkins not to rush her return. “I tried to dunk 12 weeks after ACL/MCL/PCL surgery. That’s why I’ve had 10 knee surgeries.” Miller echoed her support, adding, “Take your time, JuJu.”
Hearing encouragement from legends like Parker and Miller has meant a lot to Watkins. Their empathy shows the respect she has earned across the basketball world and underscores her influence on and off the court.
Watkins’ injury happened as she drove toward the basket, her knee buckling and forcing her to the floor. Despite losing their star, the Trojans advanced to the Elite Eight, where they fell to UConn, 78-64, ending their tournament run. The loss was a tough blow for a team that had high hopes with Watkins leading the way.
Even after her injury, Watkins received praise for her outstanding season. She was named the 2025 Naismith College Player of the Year and won the John R. Wooden Award. She averaged 23.9 points, 6.8 rebounds, 3.4 assists, 2.2 steals, and 1.8 blocks per game, earning All-American honors and cementing her status as one of USC’s all-time greats.
Watkins was also nominated for the 2025 ESPY Award for Best College Athlete, Women’s Sports, alongside Gretchen Walsh, Olivia Babcock, and Katie Faasse. Her achievements have made her the face of the program and a role model for younger players.
As she begins her journey through rehab, Watkins carries not just the hopes of USC fans but also her own future in the game. The guidance from Parker and Miller is a reminder that she is not alone and that her path back to full strength is supported by those who have walked it before.
