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USC Prepares for Sweet 16 Without Injured Star JuJu Watkins

The Trojans adapt their strategy after Watkins' season-ending ACL injury, rallying around her spirit as they face Kansas State.

  • JuJu Watkins, USC's standout player and National Player of the Year finalist, tore her ACL during the second round of the NCAA Tournament, requiring surgery and extensive rehabilitation.
  • USC coach Lindsay Gottlieb and players emphasize resilience and teamwork, with senior Kiki Iriafen and freshman Avery Howell stepping into expanded roles.
  • The basketball community, including Paige Bueckers and Dawn Staley, has rallied around Watkins, highlighting her cultural and athletic significance to the sport.
  • Watkins' absence has coincided with a decline in NCAA women's tournament attendance and viewership, underscoring her impact on the game's visibility.
  • USC remains determined to compete, with their Sweet 16 matchup against Kansas State presenting a test of their depth and adaptability without their star player.
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