The Iowa women’s basketball program has experienced an exhilarating and unprecedented journey during the Caitlin Clark era, particularly in the last couple of years.
However, it was inevitable that the team would have to transition away from the remarkable presence of the world-renowned college athlete and Division I’s leading scorer of all time.
Although Clark’s departure cannot be filled, the coaching staff at Iowa, along with the Iowa SWARM Collective, has made significant strides in leveraging the NCAA transfer portal.

Lucy Olsen, who averaged 23.3 points per game for Villanova last season, has committed to joining Iowa. Lisa Bluder’s Hawkeyes have successfully secured Olsen, the nation’s third-highest scorer from the previous season, as a valuable addition to their roster for the upcoming 2024-25 season.
Olsen, a standout point guard, announced her commitment to Iowa after making an official visit to Iowa City shortly following the WNBA Draft, where Clark was selected first overall by the Indiana Fever and Kate Martin was picked 18th by the Las Vegas Aces.

This acquisition marks a significant achievement for Iowa via the transfer portal, representing the pinnacle of Bluder’s tenure. Olsen, who was Pennsylvania’s Miss Basketball in 2021, brings with her an impressive scoring record from her time with the Wildcats, showcasing her prowess with an average of 23.3 points per game. Standing at 5 feet 9 inches, she also demonstrated her versatility by contributing in rebounds and assists.

Olsen’s shooting percentages from both inside and beyond the arc underscore her effectiveness as a scorer, although her style differs from Clark’s record-breaking performance.
Nonetheless, Olsen’s arrival addresses a crucial need on the Hawkeyes’ roster for the upcoming season, especially with the recovery of incoming four-star point guard Aaliyah Guyton from an ACL injury. This allows Guyton ample time to recuperate fully before assuming the responsibilities of a high-profile position as a freshman.

Envisioning the starting lineup with Olsen at point guard alongside other key players sets the stage for a promising season for the Hawkeyes.
ESPN’s recognition of Olsen as the fifth overall prospect in the transfer portal further solidifies her potential impact on the team’s performance, serving as a transitional figure until the arrival of Addie Deal, ESPN’s 12th overall recruit in the Class of 2025, who has also committed to Iowa.

With Olsen’s addition, the Hawkeyes have filled their roster for the 2024-25 season, positioning themselves as strong contenders on the national stage. Their upcoming schedule, featuring notable nonconference matchups and traditional in-state rivalries, underscores their readiness to compete at the highest level.