USC’s Shaw injured while saving drowning nephew


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Senior cornerback/safety Josh Shaw proved deserving of his title of co-captain this weekend, but at quite a cost.

Just hours after being named one of six team captains at the annual Salute to Troy on Saturday night, Shaw sidelined himself indefinitely by sustaining two high ankle sprains.

The Palmdale, California native was attending a family function at his cousin’s apartment when he saw his 7-year-old nephew Carter struggling in the pool, unable to swim. Shaw jumped down from a second-story balcony and landed on the concrete, spraining both of his ankles before crawling into the pool and dragging his nephew out.

Shaw, who transferred to USC from Florida in 2012, remained humble about the event and positive about the rehabilitation process that lies ahead.

“I would do it again for whatever kid it was, it did not have to be my nephew,” Shaw told USCTrojans.com. “My ankles really hurt, but I am lucky to be surrounded by the best trainers and doctors in the world. I am taking my rehab one day at a time, and I hope to be back on the field soon.”

Despite being disappointed about losing Shaw indefinitely, USC head coach Steve Sarkisian praised Shaw’s character.

“That was a heroic act by Josh, putting his personal safety aside,” Sarkisian said. “But that’s the kind of person he is. It is unfortunate that he’ll be sidelined for a while and we will miss his leadership and play, but I know he’ll be working hard to get back on the field as soon as possible.”

Indeed, the Trojans will miss the versatile defensive back. In 14 games last year, Shaw recorded 67 total tackles and four interceptions. High ankle sprains typically take around six weeks to heal.

Shaw has been open about dealing with adversity in the past. At USC’s student-athlete graduation in May, Shaw told the story of transferring to USC to be closer to his ailing grandfather and to help with the family business.

“Life doesn’t always work out the way you planned,” Shaw said. “When and perhaps if you are met with challenges, my fellow graduates, don’t give up. Never accept no for an answer, for we are Trojans.”