JuJu Watkins will likely miss the entire 2025-26 NCAA season after she suffered an ACL injury against the Mississippi State Bulldogs in the second round of the 2025 NCAA tournament.
Watkins led the team to a 29-3 record (17-1) before she suffered the season-ending injury, averaging 23.9 points, 6.8 rebounds, 3.4 assists, 2.2 steals and 1.8 blocks per game, shooting 42.6% from the field, 32.5% from deep and 82% from the free-throw line.
Her impact can’t be felt only on the court, but in the recruitment department, too. Watkins’ young career has already inspired other prospects to join her at the Galen Center. While she won’t be out there with the rest of her teammates, Watkins has made a strong impact on them.
Saniyah Hall explains how JuJu Watkins prompted her to join USC
JuJu Watkins helped the women of Troy secure a major signing ahead of the 2025-26 season. Saniyah Hall, the No. 1 prospect in the 2026 class, explained to No Cap Space WBB the role Watkins played in her decision to join USC.
“Juju’s such an amazing person,” Hall said. “She was an amazing coach at the time. She’s such a players’ coach, if she were ever to be like a real one. I just feel like we had so much fun there and we really bonded. That was part of me joining USC.”
She added that Lindsey Gottlieb’s presence also helped her make this decision, as they have a long-time relationship.
“I just think Coach Lindsey, you know, she’s been there for me ever since freshman year, always stayed in contact with me. Building that relationship since day one is very key,” she said.
Hall is a major addition to the Trojans, who appear to be closer to the national championship each year.