The highly anticipated return of USC star JuJu Watkins is set to electrify the basketball court as the third-ranked Trojans prepare to open their regular season against UNLV on Monday. Watkins, who has been sidelined by an ACL injury, expressed that she has been envisioning her triumphant return and first basket since the moment she sustained the injury.

This comeback holds significant weight for both Watkins and the USC program, as the Trojans are aiming to end a long-standing championship drought. The team has not secured a national title in women's basketball since 1983, making the current season a pivotal one.

Watkins' return signifies a major boost for USC's aspirations. Her presence on the court is expected to elevate the team's performance and provide the leadership necessary to navigate the challenging season ahead. The player's personal drive, fueled by her recovery and specific aspirations like making her first basket, underscores the intensity she brings.

The implications of Watkins' healthy return are far-reaching for the Pac-12 conference and the national landscape of women's college basketball. USC, with Watkins at the helm, is now firmly positioned as a strong contender for the national championship, adding another layer of excitement to the upcoming NCAA tournament.

While the source material does not provide specific details about the nature or timeline of her ACL injury, her own words suggest a significant period of rehabilitation and mental preparation. The dream of her "first basket" since the injury highlights a deeply personal milestone within the larger team goal.

This season marks a critical juncture for USC, which has consistently been a competitive program but has fallen short of the ultimate prize for decades. The addition of a fully recovered and motivated JuJu Watkins could be the missing piece to finally hoisting the championship trophy.

Fans and analysts alike will be closely watching how Watkins integrates back into game play and how her dynamic presence impacts the Trojans' chemistry and overall success. Her journey back from injury, coupled with the team's championship ambitions, creates a compelling narrative for the 2026-2027 season.

The opening game against UNLV will offer the first glimpse into how Watkins and the revamped USC squad will perform. The anticipation surrounding this game is palpable, as it signals not only the start of a new season but also the return of a star player determined to make her mark.