USC Advances to Sweet 16 After Losing Star JuJu Watkins to Knee Injury

JuJu Watkins' status remains uncertain after being carried off the court during USC's dominant second-round NCAA Tournament win over Mississippi State.

JuJu Watkins, USC's leading scorer and National Player of the Year candidate, suffered a right knee injury just five minutes into the second-round game against Mississippi State.
Watkins was carried off the court after her knee buckled during a fast break, leaving the game with three points, two assists, and a rebound.
Despite losing Watkins, USC showcased their depth, defeating Mississippi State 96-59 to secure a spot in the Sweet 16 for the second consecutive year.
Kiki Iriafen stepped up in Watkins' absence, scoring a season-high 36 points and grabbing nine rebounds to lead the Trojans to victory.
USC coach Lindsay Gottlieb expressed confidence in Watkins' resilience, noting that she is being evaluated by the team's medical staff, with her tournament status still unknown.