JuJu Watkins: Is Playing Today | South Carolina | Is Playing This Season

Introduction

JuJu Watkins has rapidly become one of the biggest stars in women’s college basketball. Known for her elite scoring ability, versatility, and leadership, the USC Trojans guard has drawn national attention since her freshman year. However, recent developments have left fans asking critical questions: Is JuJu Watkins playing today? Is she playing against South Carolina? Will she return this season?

This article provides the latest updates, injury details, and everything you need to know about her current status in the 2025–26 season.

Is JuJu Watkins Playing Today?

The straightforward answer: No, JuJu Watkins is not playing today.

Recent reports confirm that Watkins is out for the entire 2025–26 season, meaning she is unavailable for any current games, including NCAA Tournament matchups.

Even though she may travel with the team and appear on the sidelines, she is not cleared to play.

Why Is She Not Playing?

Watkins suffered a torn ACL (anterior cruciate ligament) during the 2025 NCAA Tournament. This type of injury typically requires surgery and extensive rehabilitation, often sidelining athletes for 9–12 months or longer.

She made the decision, alongside medical professionals, to sit out the entire season to fully recover.

Is JuJu Watkins Playing Against South Carolina?

When USC faces top teams like South Carolina Gamecocks women’s basketball, fans naturally expect marquee matchups. However:

JuJu Watkins is not playing against South Carolina.

Reports indicate she may still be present with the team during games held in Columbia, South Carolina, but she will not take the court.

Impact on the Matchup

Without Watkins, USC loses:

• Their primary scorer
• A defensive playmaker
• A team leader

This significantly affects their competitiveness against elite programs like South Carolina, which has been a powerhouse under coach Dawn Staley.

Is JuJu Watkins Playing This Season?

Again, the answer is clear:

No, JuJu Watkins is not playing in the 2025–26 season.

She officially announced her decision to sit out the season for recovery after her ACL injury.

Official Statement Highlights

Watkins emphasized:

• Focus on long-term health
• Commitment to full recovery
• Desire to return stronger

This decision aligns with modern athlete management, where players prioritize long-term careers over rushing back too soon.

Timeline of JuJu Watkins’ Injury

March 2025 – Injury Occurs

• Watkins injures her knee during an NCAA Tournament game
• Diagnosed with a torn ACL

Mid-2025 – Surgery and Rehab

• Undergoes surgery
• Begins recovery process

September 2025 – Official Announcement

• Declares she will miss the entire season

2026 – Current Status

• Still recovering
• Not playing in any games

What Is an ACL Injury?

An ACL injury is one of the most serious injuries in basketball.

Key Facts:

• Affects knee stability
• Requires surgical repair
• Recovery time: 9–12+ months

For elite athletes like Watkins, rehab also includes:

• Strength rebuilding
• Mobility training
• Game-readiness conditioning

JuJu Watkins’ Career Before Injury

Despite her young age, Watkins has already built an impressive résumé.

College Stats Highlights

• Averaged 23.9 points per game
• Contributed rebounds, assists, steals, and blocks
• Reached 1,000 career points in just 38 games

Awards and Achievements

• National Player of the Year (2025)
• Big Ten Player of the Year
• Multiple All-American selections

Her dominance made her one of the most exciting players in women’s basketball.

USC Without JuJu Watkins

The USC Trojans women’s basketball have had to adapt significantly.

Key Adjustments

• Increased reliance on younger players
• Leadership shifts within the roster
• Tactical changes by coaching staff

Fresh talents like Jazzy Davidson have stepped up in her absence, helping USC remain competitive despite the loss.

How Her Absence Affects the NCAA Tournament

Watkins’ absence has major implications:

Challenges for USC

• Reduced scoring power
• Less defensive pressure
• Limited star presence

Opponent Advantage

Teams like South Carolina gain:

• Tactical edge
• Less defensive focus on stopping a superstar
• Better matchup flexibility

Will JuJu Watkins Return Next Season?

All indications suggest:

Yes, JuJu Watkins is expected to return for the 2026–27 season.

However, her return depends on:

• Full medical clearance
• Strength and conditioning progress
• Avoiding setbacks during rehab

What to Expect Upon Return

• Possible minutes restriction initially
• Gradual return to peak form
• Continued dominance once fully healthy

Why USC Is Taking a Cautious Approach

Rushing back from an ACL injury can lead to:

• Re-injury
• Long-term damage
• Reduced career longevity

By sitting out the season, Watkins and USC are ensuring:

• Complete recovery
• Peak performance upon return
• Long-term career success (including WNBA prospects)

JuJu Watkins’ Future Outlook

Watkins remains one of the top prospects in women’s basketball.

Future Potential

• Likely top WNBA draft pick
• Continued college dominance post-recovery
• Brand and endorsement growth

Even while injured, her influence on the sport remains strong.

Fan Reactions and Support

Fans across the basketball world have shown overwhelming support.

Common Sentiments

• Encouragement for recovery
• Excitement for her return
• Recognition of her impact on the game

Her absence has only increased anticipation for her comeback.

FAQs

1. Is JuJu Watkins playing today?

No, JuJu Watkins is not playing today as she is out for the entire 2025–26 season due to an ACL injury.

2. Is JuJu Watkins playing against South Carolina?

No, she is not playing against South Carolina or any team this season.

3. Why is JuJu Watkins not playing?

She suffered a torn ACL in March 2025 and is currently recovering.

4. Will JuJu Watkins return this season?

No, she will miss the entire 2025–26 season.

5. When will JuJu Watkins return?

She is expected to return in the 2026–27 season, pending recovery.

6. What injury does JuJu Watkins have?

She has a torn ACL (anterior cruciate ligament) in her knee.

7. How good is JuJu Watkins?

She is one of the best players in college basketball, averaging nearly 24 points per game and winning multiple national awards.

8. Who is replacing JuJu Watkins at USC?

Players like Jazzy Davidson and other teammates have stepped up in her absence.

Conclusion

To summarize:

• JuJu Watkins is NOT playing today
• She is NOT playing against South Carolina
• She is OUT for the entire 2025–26 season

Her absence is a major loss for USC and college basketball, but it’s a necessary step for her long-term health and career.

Fans eagerly await her return, and when she does come back, she is expected to once again dominate the court and solidify her status as one of the brightest stars in the game.