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USC star JuJu Watkins, one of the most electrifying players in college basketball, suffered a heartbreaking injury during the NCAA Tournament on Monday.
The standout guard was carried off the court in the first quarter of USC's second-round win over Mississippi State, and later reports confirmed that she had torn her right ACL. Watkins will undergo surgery and begin rehabilitation, ending her sophomore season prematurely.
Caitlin Clark's touching message to JuJu Watkins
The injury is a significant blow not only to Watkins and the Trojans but to the broader women's basketball community.
The 19-year-old was a key force behind USC's No. 1 seed in the tournament and a frontrunner for national player of the year.
As news of her injury spread, players and legends of the game reached out with messages of , including former Iowa star Caitlin Clark, the all-time leading scorer in NCAA Division I history.
"Sending all my thoughts and prayers to JuJu," Clark wrote Tuesday on X.
"Kid will come back stronger than ever."
Clark and Watkins were both first-team All-Americans in 2024, with the Iowa legend dominating as a senior and Watkins making her mark as a freshman.
Their shared scoring prowess and impact on the game have linked them in many ways, and Clark's words highlighted the respect she has for the USC star.
Watkins also received encouragement from other basketball standouts.
WNBA's Angel Reese posted, "Prayers for JuJu" along with a praying hands emoji.
LSU's Flau'jae Johnson added, "I pray JuJu okay."
WNBA legend and USC alum Lisa Leslie also shared her emotions, writing, "My heart is broken. I will keep you in my prayers @Jujubballin. I know you will be back stronger and better!! Fight On @USCWBB for JuJu."
Watkins' injury leaves a major void for the Trojans, who will face No. 5 Kansas State in the Sweet 16.
The Los Angeles native had been a dominant force all season, averaging 23.9 points, 6.8 rebounds, and 3.4 assists over 33 games.
She burst onto the scene as a freshman with a 27.1 points-per-game average, trailing only Clark that season.
While Watkins' season has come to an unexpected end, the overwhelming from Clark and other basketball figures is a testament to the impact she's already made.
Now, all eyes will be on her recovery, and the promise of a comeback story in the making.