In a significant moment for women's basketball, University of Iowa standout Lucy Olsen was welcomed into the professional league by the Washington Mystics during the 2025 WNBA Draft. As one of six Hawkeyes drafted since 2019, Olsen joins an elite group that includes Kathleen Doyle, Megan Gustafson, Monika Czinano, Caitlin Clark, and Kate Martin. Her career at Iowa was marked by impressive achievements, including surpassing 2,000 points, 500 rebounds, and 500 assists in her sole season with the team after transferring from Villanova.

A Promising Journey to Professional Basketball

On a chilly Monday evening, the basketball world watched as Lucy Olsen became the latest representative of the University of Iowa to join the ranks of the WNBA. Selected as the 23rd overall pick by the Washington Mystics, Olsen's journey has been nothing short of remarkable. Hailing from the Big Ten Conference, where she was unanimously chosen for the first-team all-Big Ten selection, she made her mark on the court during her senior year. In just one season at Iowa, Olsen achieved extraordinary milestones, becoming only the ninth consecutive Hawkeye since 2017 to earn such honors. Notably, her performance in Iowa’s NCAA Tournament victory against Murray State showcased her versatility with a double-double of 12 points and 12 assists.

Head coach Jan Jensen expressed immense pride in Olsen's accomplishments, highlighting her dedication and work ethic. "Lucy deserves this incredible opportunity," Jensen stated. "Her relentless effort and passion for the game have brought her to this point, and I am thrilled to see her dreams come true."

With twenty former Hawkeyes having been drafted or signed into the WNBA since 1997, Lucy Olsen continues a proud tradition of excellence at the University of Iowa.

From a journalist's perspective, Lucy Olsen's story serves as a testament to the power of perseverance and hard work. It reminds us that even in a competitive environment like collegiate athletics, individual growth and determination can lead to great achievements. For aspiring athletes everywhere, Olsen’s journey is an inspiring example of how transferring schools and embracing new opportunities can pave the way to success in professional sports. Washington Mystics fans are undoubtedly excited about what the future holds for their newest player, whose talents promise to make an immediate impact on the team.