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NBA legend Magic Johnson sends encouraging message to JuJu Watkins after scary injury

The chilling injury suffered by USC Trojans star JuJu Watkins prompted NBA legend Magic Johnson to share some words of encouragement.

Earvin 'Magic' Johnson, a new owner of the Washington Commanders, looks on during a press conference introducing the team's new ownership at FedExField on July 21, 2023 in Landover, Maryland. NFL teams owners have unanimously approved a $6.05 billion sale of the Commanders from Dan Snyder to a group led by Josh Harris.
Ā© Tasos Katopodis/Getty ImagesEarvin 'Magic' Johnson, a new owner of the Washington Commanders, looks on during a press conference introducing the team's new ownership at FedExField on July 21, 2023 in Landover, Maryland. NFL teams owners have unanimously approved a $6.05 billion sale of the Commanders from Dan Snyder to a group led by Josh Harris.

The serious injury suffered by USC Trojans star JuJu Watkins last night in her team’s victory over Mississippi State sparked various messages of support and encouragement for her speedy recovery. NBA legend Magic Johnson was not indifferent and was one of those who spoke out on the matter.

Through his official X (formerly Twitter) account @MagicJohnson, one of the greatest basketball players in history expressed his shock over the incident and wishes for Watkins to make a swift return to the court.

ā€œDevastated to hear the news that Juju Watkins tore her ACL last night. I’m praying for a speedy recovery, but I know Juju is a competitor and will be back stronger and better!,ā€ the former Lakers player wrote through his social media.

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The USC Trojans remain standing in the NCAA Tournament, although from now on, they will have to face the rest of the tournament without their star player, who will be sidelined for several months.

JuJu Watkins USC

JuJu Watkins #12 of the USC Trojans after an injury against the Mississippi State Bulldogs in the first half during the second round of the NCAA Women’s Basketball Tournament at Galen Center on March 24, 2025 in Los Angeles, California.

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Angel Reese joined the messages of support

Various colleagues and figures from the sports world have spoken out about the situation faced by the extraordinary player JuJu Watkins. One of them was Angel Reese, who sent a 3-word message to the USC star after her season-ending injury in March Madness.

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ā€œPrayers for JuJu!,ā€ the Chicago Sky star posted on her X (formerly Twitter) account, along with a tearful and praying emoji.

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Watkins is expected to return to the court in the next 6 to 9 months, although these timelines are always relative when dealing with such serious injuries as the one suffered by the USC player.

What happened to Watkins?

While the first half of the game was being played, in which the USC Trojans ultimately secured their qualification against Mississippi State, the team’s star, JuJu Watkins, suffered a chilling knee injury that will sideline her for the rest of the season.

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ā€œBreaking: USC phenom JuJu Watkins has suffered a torn ACL in her right knee, sources tell ESPN. She will undergo surgery,ā€ insider Shams Charania reported via @ShamsCharania.

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