JuJu Watkins, the standout player for the University of Southern California (USC), is nearing the end of her rehabilitation from a torn ACL that kept her out of the 2025-26 season. During a recent practice session at the Phoenix Mercury facility, she showcased her shooting skills without a knee brace, indicating her recovery is progressing well. "Recovery's coming along very well," Watkins stated, expressing gratitude for her journey. The injury occurred during the second round of the 2025 NCAA tournament against Mississippi State on March 24, leaving her over a year post-injury. Watkins, a two-time All-American and the 2024-25 AP Player of the Year, is expected to be ready for the 2026-27 season. Currently, she is participating in limited drills at the USA Basketball national team training camp, a notable improvement from her previous experience at a December camp where she could only observe. Sue Bird, Team USA managing director, noted that Watkins is in a positive mindset as she prepares to return to the court. The USC Trojans, who finished the 2026 NCAA tournament with an 18-14 record, are looking forward to her return, especially with a strong recruiting class that includes the top recruit Saniyah Hall.