JuJu Watkins, the standout guard for USC, will be unable to participate in the entire 2025–26 women’s basketball season as she continues her recovery from a right ACL tear sustained during the second round of the NCAA tournament. Her absence poses a significant challenge to the Trojans as they now must find a way to cope without their leading scorer and emotional cornerstone.
In her place, the spotlight shifts to Jasmine Davidson, the nation’s top-ranked freshman recruit. Davidson’s exceptional versatility and impressive performance on the court have already drawn comparisons to basketball superstar Breanna Stewart. Many believe she has the potential to significantly influence USC’s playing style and serve as a foundational figure for the team’s future.
Watkins, the reigning National Player of the Year, had a remarkable sophomore season, averaging 23.9 points, 6.8 rebounds, 3.4 assists, and 2.2 steals. With her out for the season, the 18th-ranked Trojans faced uncertainty regarding how they would maintain their competitive edge.
Head coach Lindsay Gottlieb emphasized the importance of Watkins’ health, stating, “JuJu’s health and well-being are our top priority, and we fully support her decision to focus on recovery this season. While we will certainly miss her impact on the court, she continues to play a vital role in our program as a leader and teammate.”
Although Watson’s absence raised concerns that the Trojans might struggle to uphold their recent success, the team quickly dispelled those worries just two games into the new season. On November 8, USC pulled off an impressive upset against No. 9 NC State, securing a narrow 69–68 victory. The game was highlighted by Davidson’s standout performance, where she clinched the win with a last-second layup. She finished with 21 points, 18 of which came in the second half, as well as contributing four rebounds, four assists, three steals, and five blocks, showcasing her defensive prowess.
Commentators Kalia Butler and Sophia Jones were quick to praise Davidson’s performance. Jones remarked on the team’s ability to compete without Watkins, while Butler noted Davidson’s emergence as a “three-level scorer” with the capability to fill the void left by the star guard.
Davidson arrived at USC with an impressive track record, including being a four-time Oregon Gatorade Player of the Year and earning a gold medal at the 2025 FIBA U19 World Cup, where she set a record for performance efficiency. Her accolades and skill set have led to immediate comparisons with Stewart, both in terms of early-career excellence and ability to deliver in high-pressure moments.
With Jasmine Davidson stepping into the spotlight, the Trojans appear poised to continue their competitive journey, demonstrating resilience and talent that keeps hope alive for a strong season despite the challenges they face.