What’s the latest on USC Trojans star guard JuJu Watkins’ injury ahead of their second-round NCAA Tournament game against Mississippi State at the Galen Center?
“I’m pleased to share that JuJu participated fully in practice yesterday during a 90-minute session, and she also completed everything in today’s shoot-around,” reported Holly Rowe on ESPN. “She looks fantastic and is all set to play against Mississippi State.
This news brings a big sigh of relief to USC fans as they prepare for the March Madness matchup.
As the No. 1 seed, USC easily defeated No. 16 UNC Greensboro 71-25 on Saturday, with Watkins leading the way by scoring 22 points. There was a tense moment in the second half when she left the game after rolling her ankle, but she returned and addressed her ankle and a wrist injury during the post-game press conference.
“I don’t know. It’s the end of the season, and my body’s a bit banged up, but we just move on. No one really cares, so we keep going,” Watkins said. “Oh yeah, I’m all good. No worries.”
Having a healthy Watkins is excellent news for the Trojans, who are aiming for their first NCAA Tournament championship since 1984.
Last year, USC was knocked out in the Elite 8 by the UConn Huskies, who they might face again in the Elite 8 this season. Can USC overcome UConn this time around?
“USC has more depth than just JuJu,” Rowe added. “They feature some outstanding players, like Kiki Iriafen, who averages 18 points per game and can rebound with the best. They also have Rayah Marshall, a senior who excels defensively. This team is deeper than just JuJu, but they do possess a standout player for the NCAA tournament, which puts them in a strong position.”
First, USC will take on the Mississippi State Bulldogs on March 24 at 7 p.m. PT at the Galen Center in Los Angeles, California. The winner will advance to the Sweet 16 to face the Kansas State Wildcats, and there’s a potential rematch with UConn on the horizon.
On December 21, USC pulled off an upset against then-No. 4 UConn, winning 72-70 in Hartford at the XL Center. This marked the first time USC defeated UConn in their history, with Watkins leading the team with 25 points.
How does Watkins feel about a possible rematch with UConn and star player Paige Bueckers?
“That’s really exciting,” Watkins remarked. “We love competition. We faced them earlier in the season, so it would be an even better matchup this time around. Both teams have improved, so it should be a fantastic game.”
However, USC would do well not to underestimate Mississippi State. The Bulldogs recently secured a win against the No. 8 California Golden Bears, 59-46, showcasing their strong defense. USC and Mississippi State are set to tip off on March 24 at 7 p.m. PT.
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