With the first-round win behind them, Iowa now prepares for a tougher challenge in the next stage of the Big Ten tournament
Their next opponent will likely pose a greater threat, demanding even more from Olsen and her teammates.
For Iowa to continue their success, they will need to build on their strengths—efficient scoring, solid defense, and strong ball movement.
Olsen’s leadership will be key in maintaining composure and executing game plans against higher-seeded opponents.
As the tournament progresses, all eyes will be on Lucy Olsen to see if she can continue leading Iowa on this remarkable journey. If her performance against Wisconsin is any indication, the Hawkeyes are in good hands.
“We just want to keep playing,” Olsen said. “This team is so good and so special that I’m just trying to do whatever I can to let us keep playing some more basketball.”
With her determination and skill set, there is no doubt that Lucy Olsen will continue to shine and make a lasting impact on Iowa basketball for seasons to come.
Also Read: Lucy Olsen’s Boyfriend Unveiled: Get to Know Trinity Tigers’ Grayson Herr
Table of Contents
Lucy Olsen: Victory in the Big Ten Tournament
A Commanding Performance in the Opening Round
No. 11-seeded Iowa started their Big Ten tournament journey with an emphatic 81-54 win over No. 14-seeded Wisconsin on Wednesday night.1
Leading the charge was none other than Lucy Olsen, who delivered a spectacular performance with 19 points on an efficient 66.7% shooting from the field and an even more impressive 75% from three-point range.
Olsen also contributed two rebounds and three assists, ensuring the Hawkeyes’ dominance from start to finish.
Iowa’s relentless offensive attack and stifling defense overwhelmed the Badgers, setting the tone for what they hope will be a deep tournament run.
The win not only secured their advancement but also showcased the significant strides Iowa has made in adjusting to a new era without Caitlin Clark.
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The Legacy Olsen is Building at Iowa
While Caitlin Clark’s shadow looms large over Iowa basketball, Lucy Olsen is carving out her own legacy. Reaching the 2,000-point milestone is a testament to her consistency and dedication to the game.
More importantly, her ability to step into a leadership role in a new program and excel speaks to her resilience and talent.
Iowa fans have quickly embraced Olsen as the new face of the program, and with performances like this, she is proving that the Hawkeyes remain a formidable force in women’s college basketball.
When Lucy Olsen transferred from Villanova to Iowa, expectations were sky-high. Filling the void left by Caitlin Clark, a generational talent, was no small task.
Yet, Olsen has proven that she is more than capable of leading the Hawkeyes with her exceptional scoring ability, sharp decision-making, and leadership on the court.
Lucy Olsen’s Historic Milestone
Beyond the victory, Olsen had a personal milestone to celebrate. With a three-pointer in the second quarter, she surpassed 2,000 career points, an accomplishment that cements her as one of college basketball’s elite scorers.2
Having previously played for the Villanova Wildcats before transferring to Iowa to replace Caitlin Clark, Olsen has seamlessly integrated into the Hawkeyes’ system and continued her scoring prowess.
Adding to the significance of the night, Olsen also reached 500 points as an Iowa player in this game.
This dual milestone reflects not only her consistency but also her ability to thrive in a new environment despite the pressure of stepping into the role vacated by one of the greatest players in NCAA history.
Jan Jensen’s Heartfelt Tribute
Following the game, Iowa head coach Jan Jensen took to Instagram to celebrate Olsen’s remarkable achievement. In a story post, she praised Olsen’s scoring milestone and expressed her pride in the star guard’s accomplishments.
“That’s a lotta points. Congrats @lucy3olsen on an amazing accomplishment … proud of ya! Let’s keep it goin,” Jensen wrote.
This recognition from her coach further underscores Olsen’s importance to the team and highlights her journey as a player who has embraced her role with confidence and determination.
During her time at Villanova, Olsen was a key contributor and developed into a dynamic scorer. The transition to Iowa has allowed her to showcase her versatility in an offense that values fast-paced play and three-point shooting.
Her seamless adaptation to the Big Ten’s competitive environment speaks volumes about her basketball IQ and work ethic.
Lucy Olsen: Breaking Down Her Game
Efficiency and Versatility
Olsen’s success this season is a direct result of her refined offensive skill set. She is an efficient scorer who can shoot from beyond the arc, attack the rim, and create opportunities for her teammates.3
Her 66.7% shooting in this game exemplifies her ability to take high-quality shots, while her 75% accuracy from three-point range underscores her lethal perimeter shooting.
Aside from scoring, Olsen’s passing and defensive contributions have been invaluable. Her ability to read the game and make smart plays ensures that Iowa remains a well-rounded offensive unit.
As the Hawkeyes continue their tournament run, Olsen’s versatility will be a crucial factor in their success.
Iowa’s Tournament Aspirations: Can They Go Deep?
With this statement win, Iowa has set the stage for a potentially deep run in the Big Ten tournament. While the team is adjusting to life post-Caitlin Clark, they have developed a new identity built around balanced scoring and defensive intensity.
Olsen’s leadership and scoring ability provide the team with a focal point, but the Hawkeyes’ supporting cast has also stepped up.
Players like Hannah Stuelke and Sydney Affolter have played key roles in complementing Olsen’s offensive production, creating a dynamic and unpredictable attack.
The question remains: Can Iowa sustain this level of play against tougher competition? If Olsen continues her stellar performances and the team maintains its defensive pressure, they have the potential to make a deep tournament run and possibly secure an NCAA tournament berth.
Also Read: Caitlin Clark to Lucy Olsen Transfer: Jan Jensen Discusses The Portal Strategy and Promotion
Lucy Olsen Celebrates Career Milestone
A Rising Star in the Big Ten Conference
Lucy Olsen’s journey to the Iowa Hawkeyes has been nothing short of remarkable. After an exceptional stint with the Villanova Wildcats, she entered the transfer portal and found a new home in Iowa.
Now, as one of the top players in the Big Ten Conference, Olsen has proven to be an essential part of the Hawkeyes’ squad.
Her recent recognition as a first-team All-Big Ten selection solidifies her place as one of the most elite players in the conference.
Achieving 2000 Career Points: A Milestone to Remember
On Tuesday, Olsen reached an impressive career milestone by surpassing 2000 career points, an achievement that few players attain.
Her ability to score at an elite level, combined with her court vision and leadership, has made her an indispensable asset to Iowa’s transition phase under new head coach Jan Jensen.
In her postgame press conference, Olsen reflected on her accomplishment with humility. “It’s exciting,” she said.
“But I’m just happy to be playing basketball still, and I wouldn’t be doing it without great teammates. They gave me a lot of nice passes. I’m just lucky to be playing with them.”
The Leadership Transition: From Lisa Bluder to Jan Jensen
The Hawkeyes have entered a new era following the retirement of long-time coach Lisa Bluder. With Jan Jensen stepping in as head coach, the team has undergone changes both in structure and playing style.
Despite the adjustments, Olsen has seamlessly taken on a leadership role, guiding her team through a challenging yet rewarding season.
The transition from Caitlin Clark’s record-breaking era to Olsen’s tenure has been one of adaptation and resilience.
While replacing a generational talent like Clark is no easy feat, Olsen’s consistent performances have helped the team maintain a strong competitive edge in the Big Ten.
Lucy Olsen: Leading the Hawkeyes to a 21-9 Record
With Olsen at the helm, the Hawkeyes have posted a commendable 21-9 record. Though not yet reaching the dominance of the Caitlin Clark era, the team continues to fight for conference supremacy.
Olsen’s contributions extend beyond scoring—her playmaking and defensive efforts have played a crucial role in Iowa’s success this season.
She currently averages 18.0 points, 3.7 rebounds, and 4.8 assists per game, solidifying herself as a well-rounded player who can influence multiple aspects of the game.
Her ability to read defenses, create opportunities for teammates, and step up in clutch moments has made her a fan favorite at Carver-Hawkeye Arena.
A Fan-Favorite at Carver-Hawkeye Arena
Speaking of fan support, Iowa basketball continues to thrive thanks to a passionate fanbase that has embraced Olsen wholeheartedly. The Carver-Hawkeye Arena remains a fortress, with sold-out crowds eager to watch their new star lead the team.
“Playing here has been an amazing experience,” Olsen shared. “The fans are incredible, and the energy in this arena is unlike anything I’ve ever experienced. It pushes us to play even harder.”
The unwavering support from Hawkeye Nation has given Olsen and her teammates an added boost, helping them maintain a formidable home-court advantage.
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Overcoming Challenges and Growing as a Player
Every season comes with its challenges, and for Olsen, adapting to a new system under Coach Jensen was a key hurdle.
Transitioning from Villanova’s playing style to Iowa’s required adjustments in tempo, play execution, and overall team chemistry.
However, Olsen has thrived in her new environment. Her growth as a player is evident not only in her stats but also in her ability to step up as a leader on and off the court.
Her resilience, work ethic, and positive mindset have helped her navigate the pressures of being Iowa’s new focal point.
