Iowa Hawkeyes’ rising star Lucy Olsen has garnered high praise from former standout Caitlin Clark, who etched her legacy as college basketball’s all-time leading scorer. Now playing professionally for the Indiana Fever, Clark left a formidable legacy, but Olsen’s electrifying start for the Hawkeyes hints she might be poised to uphold that standard.
Olsen made an impressive impact in her debut, a decisive 91-73 win over the Northern Illinois Huskies, contributing 17 points, four rebounds, and seven assists. Speaking on Haley Jones’ podcast *Sometimes I Hoop*, Olsen shared insight into her connection with Clark: “I’ve talked to Caitlin a little bit. She’s very supportive. She told me, ‘Let me know if you need anything. I’m always here. I went through a lot and I got you.'”
This heartfelt backing showcases Clark not just as a court legend but as a mentor. Olsen, who finished her standout junior season as a close third to Clark and USC’s JuJu Watkins, is primed for a senior year that promises brilliance. Known for her scoring ability, Olsen’s accolades already include the 2024 Big East Most Improved Player title, multiple All-Big East honors, and the 2021 Miss Pennsylvania Basketball award.
While a college championship has thus far eluded her, mirroring Clark’s own collegiate journey, anticipation is high among Hawkeyes fans that this could be Olsen’s defining season.
