After JuJu Watkins' season-ending injury, Kiki Iriafen reveals USC's mindset ahead of Sweet 16

The USC Trojans‘ journey in the NCAA Tournament must continue despite the circumstances. What are these circumstances? The serious injury suffered by star JuJu Watkins in the last game, which will sideline her for at least the remainder of the season. But this isn’t over yet, and Kiki Iriafen knows they have the talent to make a statement.

Although an event like the one that sadly involved Watkins and the Trojans’ hopes of moving forward may be a significant setback, within the program, they know the mindset of achieving great things remains intact.

In recent statements to the press, Iriafen expressed confidence heading into the matchup against the Kansas State Wildcats, which will determine the fate of Lindsay Gottlieb’s team in the current March Madness.

“I wouldn’t say this is our defining moment,” Iriafen said, as reported by Beth Harris of the Associated Press. “It’s what we expect of ourselves. We expect to win in this tournament regardless if it’s going our way, we have people, we don’t have people. That’s the standard here.”

Kiki Iriafen #44 of the USC Trojans reacts against the Mississippi State Bulldogs in the second half during the second round of the NCAA Women’s Basketball Tournament at Galen Center on March 24, 2025 in Los Angeles, California.

Howell’s confidence for what’s ahead

The game against Mississippi State could have marked a turning point in USC‘s competition. Watkins’ severe injury and her subsequent exit from the game could have been a tough blow for the rest of the team.

Avery Howell was one of the many players who stepped up in that game, and after scoring 18 points (a career-high), she made it clear that confidence in the team’s ability to go far in this competition is something that is in abundance.

“We have a pretty big role this year,” Howell said to the press. “We’re prepared for most moments because of the time we’re given in games and how hard we work in practice.”

Jerkaila Jordan #2 of the Mississippi State Bulldogs takes a shot against Avery Howell #23 of the USC Trojans in the second half during the second round of the NCAA Women’s Basketball Tournament at Galen Center on March 24, 2025 in Los Angeles, California.

What’s next for the Trojans?

After a decisive 96-59 victory over Mississippi State this past Monday, the USC Trojans secured a spot in the Sweet 16, and their championship hopes remain intact. The next challenge will be against the Kansas State Wildcats, on Saturday, March 29, in Spokane, Washington.