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Magic Johnson Sends Strong Message to JuJu Watkins After Suffering Devastating Knee Injury

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Cole Sullivan | Last updated Mar 25, 2025 11:33 AM ET

The sports world was struck with tragic news on Monday night when college basketball star JuJu Watkins of the No. 1 seed USC Trojans suffered a major knee injury just five minutes into the team's second-round matchup against No. 9 seed Mississippi State in the NCAA Tournament.

Watkins' knee buckled while driving to the rim, and she was clearly in pain as she gripped her knee on the court. She was later carried off the floor and into the locker room, and shortly after being ruled out for the game, she went to a nearby facility for an MRI. The results revealed a torn ACL, ending her season. Despite the setback, USC still managed to win and advance to the Sweet 16.

While Watkins received an outpouring of support from major figures across the basketball world, NBA legend and Hall of Famer Magic Johnson also shared a strong message of encouragement. As Watkins now prepares for surgery and begins her rehab, Johnson offered his heartfelt support.

"Devastated to hear the news that JuJu Watkins tore her ACL last night," Johnson posted. "I’m praying for a speedy recovery, but I know JuJu is a competitor and will be back stronger and better!"

Devastated to hear the news that Juju Watkins tore her ACL last night. I’m praying for a speedy recovery, but I know Juju is a competitor and will be back stronger and better!
— Earvin Magic Johnson (@MagicJohnson) March 25, 2025

Watkins had USC on a trajectory to compete for a national championship, and while that opportunity still remains for the Trojans, there is no one who can replace Watkins' production and what she brings to the table as a player.

This season, the Southern California star was averaging 23.9 points, 6.8 rebounds, 3.4 assists, 2.2 steals, and 1.8 blocks per game, while shooting 42.6% from the field, 32.5% from beyond the arc, and 82.0% from the free-throw line.

College basketball fans were eagerly anticipating a potential Elite Eight rematch between Watkins and UConn star Paige Bueckers. Unfortunately, that will no longer be a possibility, as Bueckers will head to the WNBA following the season, and Watkins will hopefully make a full recovery, although next season may be a long shot for an early return.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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