Mississippi State Faces JuJu Watkins Injury Backlash After NCAA Tournament Game
LOS ANGELES — JuJu Watkins injury backlash overshadowed Mississippi State’s season-ending loss to Southern California in the NCAA women’s tournament. The Bulldogs were forced to defend their players after USC star JuJu Watkins suffered a season-ending knee injury early in the second-round game.
Watkins fell to the court in pain after a non-contact injury, surrounded by Mississippi State players. Despite no visible foul play, the Galen Center crowd erupted in boos, especially targeting guard Chandler Prater every time she touched the ball.
Mississippi State Slams Online Hate Over JuJu Watkins Injury Backlash
As the JuJu Watkins injury backlash spread across social media, Mississippi State head coach Sam Purcell responded with a strong message condemning the hateful comments and threats.
“We’re a program of class. We don’t play to injure — we compete,” Purcell said. “Social media can be cruel, but my players are heartbroken and remorseful. No one wanted this.”
Purcell added prayers for Watkins’ recovery, urging the public not to escalate the situation further.
Players Show Support as JuJu WatkinsInjury Backlash Intensifies
Junior guard Denim DeShields described it as a tragic accident, saying, “It was totally unintentional — just a basketball play. But when it happens to a star, emotions run high. We’re praying for JuJu.”
Senior Jerkaila Jordan echoed those feelings, calling Watkins “one of the best” and saying, “Seeing her go down was tough. She’s changed the game at such a young age.”
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No Bad Blood Despite JuJu Watkins Injury Backlash
Despite tensions, there was no hostility postgame. Mississippi State coaches shared their condolences with USC’s staff, who understood it was an unfortunate accident.
In the end, Mississippi State stood firm against the JuJu Watkins injury backlash, urging respect and compassion: “She’s the ultimate competitor. We pray she’s back on the court soon.”