As is well known by now, USC's JuJu Watkins suffered an ACL tear during her team's game against Mississippi State on Monday, March 24. The blow is a heavy one; USC has been heavily favored to win the NCAA title this year.
In addition to a potential hit for the team, the injury might also reshape the 2027 WNBA Draft entirely — even after Watkins is back to full health. Recovery from an ACL tear can take up to a year, so it's likely Watkins will miss the entirety of the 2025-26 season (or perhaps make an emotional and powerful return during next season's March Madness).
The 2027 draft class is already stacked
There's no beating around the bush: the 2027 WNBA Draft is going to be wild in the best way. In addition to the Watkins, the draft class is expected to include Hannah Hidalgo, Khamil Pierre, Milaysia Fulwiley, Audi Crooks, Mikaylah Williams, Kymora Johnson — and more.
There are a few ways that this injury could change things up. For starters, Watkins might be awarded an extra year of NCAA eligibility, which would set her up for the 2028 draft, and would move someone else into the top spot (which is still hers for the taking).
A great example of this scenario is happening right now. Paige Bueckers tore her ACL during a pick-up game ahead of the 2022-23 season, underwent surgery, and didn't return to the court until the following year. She received an extra year of eligibility AND was a Covid-19 kid, so she could have stayed at college through the 2025-26 season if she had chosen to do so.
Watkins could also return to the game next season and decide to remain on the same timetable that would see her being drafted in 2027. That decision will likely be paid based on a number of factors, including how prepared she feels to take on the 2026-27 season.
What's next for JuJu Watkins
First and foremost, Watkins' health is everyone's top priority. USC will undoubtedly take care of her and assist Watkins in every step of her recovery path; now is not the time to be focused on what may or may not happen in two years.
The women's basketball fanbase and community will also rally around Watkins. Like Bueckers before her, once she's recovered a bit Watkins will very likely still make public appearances and establish brand and NIL partnerships; it's unlikely there is a reality where we don't see her until she's completely re