Defending Chandler Prater in JuJu Watkins Injury Incident
USC women’s basketball head coach Lindsay Gottlieb defends Mississippi State player Chandler Prater after online criticism following JuJu Watkins’ season-ending injury, stating there was no intent to hurt Watkins. Prater faced hateful messages and disabling comments on Instagram. Watkins tore her ACL during a game, and USC moves on to face Kansas State in the Sweet 16.
Key Points
- Lindsay Gottlieb defends Chandler Prater regarding the play that caused JuJu Watkins' injury.
- Prater disables her Instagram comments after receiving hateful messages.
- JuJu Watkins undergoes surgery for her ACL tear.
- USC continues in the tournament without Watkins.
- Emphasis on the importance of showing empathy and support in sports situations.
Pros
- Lindsay Gottlieb stood up for Chandler Prater and clarified there was no malicious intent in the play that led to JuJu Watkins' injury.
- Highlighting the negative impact of online bullying and hateful messages on athletes like Prater.
- Emphasizing the need for support and empathy towards all individuals involved in sports incidents.
Cons
- JuJu Watkins suffered a season-ending injury, tearing her ACL during the game.
- Chandler Prater faced online criticism and disabling of her Instagram comment section due to hateful messages.
- The incident sparked heated reactions and negative comments towards Prater.