Lessons from Paige Bueckers for JuJu Watkins: ACL Injuries at APEX PWR and the Science of a Smart Comeback
There's a reason we say ACL injuries can be career-defining.
Some of the brightest stars in women’s college basketball—like Paige Bueckers of newly minted national champion UConn and JuJu Watkins of USC—have recently felt the weight of that reality. But what separates athletes who come back stronger from those who struggle isn’t necessarily luck. It’s time. It’s data. It’s expert-led, long-game thinking.
At APEX PWR in Portland, Oregon, we take this same championship-minded approach to ACL rehab, giving athletes of all ages a foundation to return not just to play—but to thrive. This week’s article features expert insight from a member of the sports physical therapy team at APEX PWR, Dr. Dustin Zink, DPT.
The ACL: What It Is & Why It Matters
The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is one of the four main ligaments in the knee, responsible for stability during dynamic movement—like cutting, pivoting, and landing. ACL injuries often occur during non-contact events, especially in sports like basketball, soccer, and football.
Once torn, surgical reconstruction is typically needed. But recovery doesn’t end in the OR. The ligament must biologically integrate and regain strength over time. That process can’t be rushed.
“Recent studies show a 51% reduction in reinjury risk for each month return to sport is delayed up to 9 months.” — Dustin Zink, DPT, APEX PWR
Female Athletes & ACL Risk: A Complex Equation
Female athletes are up to 8 times more likely to suffer an ACL tear compared to their male counterparts. The reason? It’s not just anatomy—it’s a blend of biology, biomechanics, and environment.
Hormonal Influence and Biomechanics
Estrogen and relaxin—hormones more prominent in women—can alter ligament laxity, potentially increasing the risk of injury. Combine that with biomechanical tendencies like increased knee valgus (inward collapse of the knee) and less hamstring activation during landing, and the ACL becomes more vulnerable.
Training Disparities & Access Gaps
Many young female athletes lack access to strength and conditioning resources that teach proper jumping, cutting, and landing mechanics. Inconsistent exposure to resistance training and neuromuscular programming means females often enter high-level competition without the physical preparation their bodies demand.
“ACL injuries are among the most common knee injuries in athletes, with an incidence in females up to eight-times higher than their male counterparts likely due anatomical, biomechanical, and external factors such as access to training facilities and staff.” — Dustin Zink, DPT
Mental Pressure and Early Specialization
Young female athletes often face high expectations early in their careers. Early sports specialization and year-round competition lead to overuse and under-recovery—factors that quietly set the stage for injury. JuJu Watkins’ rise as a teenage superstar underscores just how physically demanding the modern game has become.
Paige Bueckers: The Power of Patience
Paige Bueckers tore her ACL in August 2022. It was her second major knee injury after a tibial plateau fracture and meniscus tear the year prior. But instead of rushing back, she and the UConn staff took a smart, slow approach: she sat out the entire 2022–23 season.
When she returned in 2023–24, she didn’t just look healthy—she looked dominant. Explosive. Confident. That’s the result of respecting the biology of healing and the importance of full-spectrum rehab.
“When she returned in 2023–24, she looked explosive, confident, and complete—proof that respecting the recovery process works.” — Dustin Zink, DPT
JuJu Watkins: A Career That’s Bigger Than the Moment
In March 2025, JuJu Watkins, the electric USC guard and projected WNBA first-rounder, suffered a season-ending ACL tear. For someone who had defined consistency and resilience, the injury was a shock to fans and the basketball world.
But the smartest play now? The long one.
“The WNBA isn’t going anywhere. At 19 years old, she has the opportunity to enter the league with a strong foundation and a long runway. Slow playing her rehab wouldn’t be a setback—it’s a long-term investment in her career.” — Dustin Zink, DPT
Watkins has a future far beyond her college career. The goal shouldn’t be the fastest comeback—it should be the most complete one.
ACL Rehab at APEX PWR in Portland, Oregon
At APEX PWR, we specialize in ACL physical therapy in Portland, Oregon and the surrounding areas like Tigard and Beaverton. Our rehab programs are built for athletes who want to return stronger than before—because that’s what the research and experience tells us is possible. Our team is constantly reviewing new literature in the space, attending (or hosting) ACL specific continuing education from leading experts, along with having round tables and collaboration with surgeons in the area.
We follow the latest guidelines in ACL recovery:
- Minimum 9–12 months for a full return to play
- Functional progressions with evidence-based benchmarks
- Objective testing for return-to-sport clearance
Our tools include:
- Blood Flow Restriction (BFR) Therapy to safely accelerate strength development in early stages
- VALD Performance Technology: Force plates, DynaMo strength testing, and Speed Gates
- 40+ yards of indoor turf for sprint, agility, and change of direction training, especially unplanned & variable movement that mimics real sport scenarios
- Full strength training facility for controlled load progressions
What to Expect at Each Stage of ACL Rehab
- Early Phase: Swelling reduction, range of motion, basic quad activation
- Middle Phase: Controlled strengthening, balance and proprioception
- Late Phase: Advanced plyometrics, strength testing, change of direction drills
- Return-to-Sport Phase: Objective strength symmetry, reactive agility, mental readiness
Beyond Rehab: Return-to-Performance Programs
We don’t just stop at “cleared.” We offer:
- Youth Speed and Strength Training to rebuild confidence and competitive edge
- Adult Personal and Group Strength Training to keep you strong for life
- Nutritional Coaching with licensed nutritionist Jennie Carolan to support recovery and reduce inflammation when movement is limited
Your ACL rehab at APEX PWR doesn’t just get you back on the court—it sets you up for long-term health and performance.
“Athletes that pass testing criteria are 6x more likely to return to sport. Full clearance doesn’t just depend on pain or range of motion, but on restoring strength, neuromuscular control, and resolving performance deficits.” — Dustin Zink, DPT
Trust an ACL Expert
Dustin Zink, DPT, leads APEX PWR’s ACL rehab program with years of experience treating youth and adult athletes across every sport. His approach blends the latest clinical research, elite sports technology, and real-world coaching to ensure each rehab is tailored to the athlete—not the injury alone.
If you or your child has suffered an ACL tear, don’t settle for generic PT. Trust a clinic that treats athletes like athletes, and understands the science of the comeback.
Book your evaluation today or visit www.apexpwr.com to learn more about ACL Physical Therapy in Portland, Oregon.
APEX PWR – Tigard, Oregon | Proudly serving Portland, Beaverton, and surrounding communities.
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