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There are countless ways to continue supporting a team when injuries sideline a player, especially in the middle of March Madness. With JuJu Watkins going down, a new figure has already emerged to take her place at the moment it is most needed.
Whether it's holding lip balm on the bench or just being there with the water. I've been trying to help them as much as I can and prepare to get back next year.
Watkins said.
Everything changed quickly. Watkins was the No. 1 player for the Trojans, and with her on the roster, expectations were high to reach the Final Four of March Madness and even contend for the championship.
On February 24, 2026, during the second round of the NCAA Women's Tournament, Watkins tore the ACL in her right knee in a game against Mississippi State.
The injury was devastating for the player and for the entire team. Since then, however, she has become a major source of support for her teammates from the bench. Still, her absence has been felt on the court, particularly because of the scoring power she provided.
Jazzy Davidson took on the role no one expected
With the unfortunate news surrounding JuJu, freshman Jazzy Davidson decided it was the ideal moment to step up, guide her teammates forward, and assume a leadership role.
Davidson has averaged 17.6 points per game. Moreover, that is not the only category in which she stands out as a leader. She also had words of appreciation for her teammate JuJu.
She's helped me a lot with challenges on the court, but also off the court, the mental aspect of being a freshman and being in the position that I'm in and that she was in, she's been awesome to have.
Davidson said.
For Davidson, winning the Big Ten Freshman of the Year award has kept her motivated. Watkins had previously earned the same honor in the Pac-12.
In February 2026, Davidson scored 32 points against Ohio State, becoming the first Trojans player to record 30 or more points in a single game since Watkins accomplished the feat in 2024.
Both players share very similar paths during their college careers. That is why, now that Watkins is injured, she is offering her full support to Davidson, hoping she can become the driving force the team needs.
I can't wait to play with her, and she's taking everything head on, and I can't wait to see what she has in March,.
Watkins said.
The journey continues for the Trojans in March Madness. This Saturday, March 21, they will face the No. 8 seed, Clemson.