USC head coach Lindsay Gottlieb supports her injured star, JuJu Watkins while defending Mississippi State’s Chandler Prater from online attacks.
Watkins tore her ACL during USC’s second-round NCAA Tournament game against Mississippi State. The injury sidelined her for the rest of the tournament. The injury occurred as she drove to the basket, with Prater closely guarding her on the play.
In the aftermath, some fans have taken to social media to accuse Prater of playing dirty, a claim that Gottlieb strongly refutes. The coach is urging supporters to steer clear of unfair accusations and online harassment.
Gottlieb Defends Prater, Condemns Online Bullying
“There was nothing to me that looked like it had any intent to hurt her,” Gottlieb told ESPN’s Alexa Philippou. “I understand people being sad and hurt that she’s hurt, but nobody in our camp feels like there was any type of attack on her and would not support any type of online bullying.”
The injury to Watkins, averaging 23.9 points, 6.8 rebounds, and 3.4 assists per game, is a severe blow to USC’s championship hopes. However, Gottlieb clarified that the focus should remain on the game and not on vilifying an opposing player.
“[Chandler Prater is] a young person that was playing basketball too, and I’m sure did not want any part of a negative situation that it turned out to be,” she added.
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Watkins’ absence leaves a massive void as USC heads into the Sweet 16 against Kansas State on Saturday. Despite the setback, the Trojans remain focused on their title aspirations. A win would propel them into the Elite Eight on Monday.
USC urges fans and the basketball community to keep the conversation respectful as Watkins begins her recovery journey. The game is competitive, but sportsmanship should always come first.
