USC superstar JuJu Watkins is back and may be better than ever

As she sat down to speak with reporters for the first time in 15 months, JuJu Watkins smiled.It was great to be back.“It’s definitely been a whirlwind of emotions,” the USC women’s basketball superstar said Monday inside the Galen Center, “but I’m just really grateful to be here sitting with you all today.”Watkins’ return from the terrible knee injury she suffered in March 2025 that wiped out a possible Final Four run – not to mention the entire following season – also has made her coaches and teammates giddy about the possibilities for a team that’s considered a leading national title contender.“Just seeing her on the court and moving around and stuff,” freshman phenom Jazzy Davidson said, eyes wide with amazement, “it’s really surreal to see.” California's top news, sports and entertainment delivered to your inbox every day.Please provide a valid email.

By clicking above you agree to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.Never miss a story Might all the work that Watkins put in make the best player in the women’s college game even more special?“I mean, watch out in terms of her physical makeup – like, she’s stronger, faster, in her best shape ever,” Trojans coach Lindsay Gottlieb said, “because of the way she approached the work.”Watkins is back and practicing with the team as it enters its third week of summer workouts, but details about her status remained somewhat vague.

Reporters were told not to ask specific questions about her recovery or any timeline.But the expectation is that she’ll be fully ready to go by the Trojans’ highly anticipated season opener.After more than a year away from competing, Watkins said she’s savoring every moment.“Just being around everything,” she said.“I don’t even know, just the smallest stuff gets me excited.

Definitely being able to scrimmage again, it’s all I could ask for.”Watkins cracked up reporters when a...