When Caitlin Clark left for the WNBA last season, many doubted if Iowa could keep up the momentum.
Then came Lucy Olsen, the transfer from Villanova who not only filled the void but brought her own fire. She stepped in as Iowa’s go-to guard and carried the Hawkeyes to the Round of 32 in the NCAA Tournament, where they fell to a gritty Oklahoma team, 96-62. Now, with the WNBA Draft on the horizon Olsen’s name is buzzing.
Five Teams That Can Go for Lucy Olsen
Olsen averaged 17.9 points, 3.6 rebounds, and 5.1 assists per game this season. Her efficiency, toughness, and ability to create under pressure made her a breakout star — and a prime WNBA prospect. Here are the top five landing spots for her:
1. Indiana Fever
Pairing Lucy Olsen with Caitlin Clark? Yes, please. Their Iowa mentality could translate beautifully to the pros.
Defensively, Olsen could handle the tougher backcourt assignments, allowing Clark to conserve energy. Together, they could replicate some of the offensive magic that made the Hawkeyes a national powerhouse while addressing Indiana’s defensive struggles (87.7 PPG allowed last season).
2. Golden State Valkyries
As the WNBA’s newest expansion team, the Valkyries will be looking for high-IQ players who can grow with the franchise. Olsen fits the mold.
The scouts surely have eyes on her after her incredible 32-point performance against Nebraska on Feb. 10. The team will need foundational players and Lucy brings both skill and leadership that can set the tone from year one.
3. Washington Mystics
The Mystics are entering a brand-new chapter with a new head coach and general manager, signaling a complete rebuild from the ground up. With Ariel Atkins gone to the Chicago Sky, Washington needs young, hungry talent to reshape its identity and Olsen fits that mold perfectly.
Her ability to play both guard spots, score off the dribble, and bring relentless energy on defense makes her an ideal cornerstone during this transitional phase.
4. Los Angeles Sparks
The rebuilding Sparks need foundational pieces in their backcourt. Olsen’s three-level scoring ability would provide immediate offensive firepower to a team that finished third last in scoring (78.4 PPG) last season.
With Kelsey Plum’s scoring gravity and Olsen’s versatility, the Sparks could quickly develop one of the most dynamic guard duos in the league.
5. Dallas Wings
Right now, all eyes in Dallas are on Paige Bueckers, the UConn star who just led her team to their 12th national championship. The Wings are heavily rumored to be targeting her, but their inconsistent performances in past WNBA seasons mean they’ll take all the help they can get. That’s where Olsen becomes a valuable option.
Moreover, Olsen’s 5.1 assists per game demonstrate her playmaking abilities, which would take pressure off Arike Ogunbowale and allow her to focus more on scoring.
In the end we can say that with her versatile skill set and proven ability to thrive under pressure, Olsen has positioned herself as one of the most intriguing prospects in this year’s WNBA Draft.