Entering the 2026-2027 season, there will be a ton of hype surrounding USC women’s basketball. Much of that, of course, is due to the expected return of superstar Juju Watkins. After missing the entire 2025-2026 season with a torn ACL, Watkins is set to return to the court for the Trojans this fall.
In a recent interview with ESPN, Watkins discussed her recovery process and where she currently stands.
“Recovery’s coming along very well,” Watkins said. “Just staying with it, and I’ll be back soon.
“I’m like working out and stuff. While I’m here just shooting mainly, but back home just working on everything. Getting closer to the finish line, so I’m grateful about that.
“I think this journey has definitely taught me to have a lot of patience. So many ups and downs within the process, but just staying true to myself and staying true to process.”
Watkins and the Trojans are set to open their 2026-2027 campaign in Las Vegas against UNLV. Given the long and difficult recovery process that she has gone through, seeing her finally back on the court will certainly be a memorable moment for USC fans.
This article originally appeared on Trojans Wire: USC star Juju Watkins discusses recovery from ACL injury