In a tense end to Monday night’s NCAA Tournament clash, emotions flared in the handshake line after USC won 96–59 over Mississippi State. The game grew intense when players exchanged heated words, and coaches stepped in to restore calm.
The air turned charged after USC’s star, JuJu Watkins, hurt her knee in the first quarter. ESPN’s Holly Rowe said the injury sparked tension. “I can tell you the building was just absolutely aghast,” Rowe said. “There were a lot of really negative feelings here. In fact, just moments ago, some tempers really flared in the handshake line. Fans booed and yelled, which led to an ugly situation. Concerns about JuJu Watkins’ injury are clear for everyone.”
Watkins fell at 4:43 in the first quarter when USC built a 13–2 lead. She drove fast and hit the basket, then fell and grabbed her right knee. Her grimace of pain upset teammates and fans. They carried her off the court to the locker room for quick care. This injury is serious. Watkins had a strong season, averaging 24.6 points, 7.0 rebounds, 3.5 assists, and 2.3 steals per game. She earned the title of Big Ten Player of the Year.
After the game, USC celebrated their move to the Sweet Sixteen. Now, they face worry about Watkins’ chance to play later in the tournament. Reports say she will get an MRI to check her knee. Rowe explained that on-site MRI was not possible, so they moved her to Keck Medical Center for more tests.
As they prepare to meet Kansas State next, USC waits for news on Watkins. The team hopes she recovers quickly and plans to play while considering the impact of her injury.
