JuJu Watkins Returns to Court for USC Exhibition
The star guard scored 18 points in her first game back after a 580-day absence from competitive play.
Updated on Oct. 26, 2026 in Basketball
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JuJu Watkins made her return to competitive basketball at the Galen Center following a 580-day absence due to a torn ACL. She played 23 minutes in the exhibition game between USC and California, contributing 18 points.
Why it matters
Her return marks a significant milestone for the USC roster, as she looks to regain the form that saw her average 23.9 points per game prior to her March 2025 injury.
Watkins shot six of 14 from the field and was perfect at the charity stripe, going six-for-six on free throws. She rounded out her stat line with three rebounds, two assists, three steals, and two blocks.
The players
JuJu Watkins
She is a star guard for the University of Southern California basketball team known for her high scoring output.
Taylor Barnes
She is a basketball player for California who faced a defensive block by Watkins during the exhibition game.
The details
Watkins actively integrated herself into the game, notably blocking a layup attempt by California player Taylor Barnes during the first quarter. This exhibition performance follows her recovery from a torn ACL sustained in March 2025.
Timeline
March 2025: JuJu Watkins sustained a torn ACL injury.
October 25, 2026: USC played California in an exhibition basketball game.
November 2, 2026: USC plays against UNLV.
Season Trajectory
Watkins' return significantly bolsters the USC lineup as the team prepares to integrate its star guard back into the rotation for the upcoming season. Her presence on the floor shifts expectations for the program's competitive standing heading into regular-season play.
Fantasy players and fans should note her 23 minutes of playing time as a potential indicator of her workload for the regular season. Her perfect free-throw shooting in the exhibition provides a positive baseline for her efficiency as the USC schedule intensifies.
The takeaway
Maintaining consistent playing time will be essential for Watkins as she builds endurance following her long recovery. Fans can monitor her transition from exhibition play to regular-season intensity to gauge her continued health.
What happens next
USC is scheduled to play against UNLV on November 2, 2026.
Further reading
For more on local college sports, visit the Los Angeles Basketball page.
Live Poll
Is it safer for star athletes to return to full-speed play slowly after a major injury?
