As the Hawkeyes embark on this new chapter, managing expectations will be key. Replacing a player like Caitlin Clark is no small feat, and the team will need time to adjust to the changes in leadership and style of play
However, with Lucy Olsen in the mix and Jan Jensen at the helm, there’s reason to believe that Iowa can continue its run of success.
“Change is never easy, but it’s part of the journey,” Jensen reflected. “We’re not looking to replicate what we had—we’re looking to build something new. Lucy is a big part of that, and I’m excited to see how this team grows together.”
The upcoming season will be a crucial one for the Hawkeyes as they strive to find their new identity. With Olsen leading the way and Jensen guiding the team, the pieces are in place for Iowa to remain a force in women’s college basketball.
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Table of Contents
Iowa Women’s Basketball: Transition from Caitlin Clark to Lucy Olsen
The Iowa women’s basketball program is experiencing a pivotal moment as they enter a new era without Caitlin Clark, the generational talent who led the Hawkeyes to unprecedented success.1
Clark’s impact on the program was monumental—guiding Iowa to consecutive national championship games and redefining the team’s identity over her four-year career.
Now, the spotlight is on new head coach Jan Jensen and Villanova transfer Lucy Olsen, as they aim to build on Clark’s legacy and establish a new foundation for the team.
Thank you @IowaSwarm for setting this up with @coralvillefood ! pic.twitter.com/xLbrXYxma8
— Lucy Olsen (@LucyOlsenbball) July 17, 2024
Embracing Change: Jan Jensen’s Journey from Assistant to Head Coach
- For over two decades, Jan Jensen served as the right-hand woman to legendary Iowa head coach Lisa Bluder. Her role in shaping the program’s success cannot be overstated.
- However, with Bluder’s retirement, Jensen now finds herself at the helm, tasked with leading the team through a significant period of transition.
- The timing of this change is critical. Not only is the program adjusting to new leadership, but it’s also facing the challenge of moving forward without Clark—a player who has become synonymous with Iowa basketball.
- While this transition might seem daunting, Jensen sees it as an opportunity to build on what they’ve accomplished and introduce new dynamics to the team.
- “Stepping into this role has been both thrilling and challenging,” Jensen shared during the Big Ten Media Roundtable at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center.
- “Having worked with Lisa for so long, I’ve learned the importance of balancing tradition with innovation.
- Now, it’s about carrying forward the core values of this program while embracing change.”
Caitlin Clark Effect: Legacy Hard to Replace
Caitlin Clark’s impact on the Iowa Hawkeyes was not only felt on the court but also in the way she elevated the entire women’s basketball program.2
Known for her scoring ability, court vision, and leadership, Clark was more than just a player—she was a catalyst for success and a symbol of excellence. In her four years, she brought the Hawkeyes to two consecutive national championship games and turned Iowa into a perennial powerhouse.
“Caitlin’s departure leaves a big void, no doubt about it,” Jensen admitted. “We knew from the moment she stepped onto the court that she was going to be special, and she proved it year after year. She’s set a standard that’s hard to match, but that’s the beauty of it—she’s pushed us to aim higher.”
The challenge for Jensen and the Hawkeyes now is finding a way to replicate Clark’s production and leadership.
While no single player can replace what Clark brought to the table, the addition of Lucy Olsen from Villanova provides a promising start.
A Key Piece for Iowa’s Future
The decision to pursue Lucy Olsen as a transfer was a calculated move by Jan Jensen. Olsen, who was third in the nation in scoring last season behind Clark and USC’s JuJu Watkins, brings a wealth of experience and skill to the Hawkeyes.
Her ability to contribute on both ends of the court makes her an ideal fit for a program in transition.
“When we knew Caitlin was leaving, our priority was finding a player who could step in and help us maintain our competitive edge,” Jensen explained. “We were fortunate to connect with Lucy and her family early on, and we immediately knew she had the talent and mindset we were looking for.”
Olsen’s versatility as a scorer, facilitator, and defender will be crucial as she steps into a prominent role for the Hawkeyes. Her familiarity with high-pressure situations and her knack for making big plays make her an invaluable addition to the team.
Lucy Olsen: Building a New Identity
Lucy Olsen’s arrival marks the beginning of a new era for Iowa women’s basketball. While Clark’s offensive prowess was the focal point of the team’s strategy, Olsen’s game offers a different dynamic.3
Known for her efficiency and basketball IQ, Olsen is a player who thrives in system-based basketball, making her an ideal fit for Jensen’s approach.
“Lucy is a player who understands the nuances of the game,” Jensen said. “She’s someone who can read the defense and make the right decision, whether it’s scoring, setting up a teammate, or locking down an opponent on defense.”
Olsen’s ability to adapt to different roles will be instrumental as the Hawkeyes establish a new identity. With her at the helm, the team can implement a more balanced offense, while also focusing on improving their defensive capabilities—areas that Jensen aims to emphasize in her tenure as head coach.
Transitioning from Clark’s Style to Olsen’s Approach
One of the biggest challenges facing the Hawkeyes will be adapting to a new style of play. Caitlin Clark’s presence dictated much of the team’s approach—her ability to create her own shot and draw defensive attention allowed Iowa to play a fast-paced, free-flowing game.
With Olsen, the emphasis will likely shift towards a more structured system, with greater emphasis on ball movement and team defense.
“It’s going to be a learning process,” Jensen acknowledged. “We want to respect what Caitlin brought to this program, but we also want to explore new possibilities with Lucy. Her strengths are different, and that’s something we’re excited to build around.”
The coaching staff has already begun integrating Olsen into the system, working on developing chemistry with the returning players and establishing new plays that highlight her strengths. The transition won’t happen overnight, but Jensen is confident that Olsen’s skill set will help the team continue competing at the highest level.
Recruiting and Future Outlook: Setting the Stage for Sustained Success
Acquiring Lucy Olsen was a major victory for the Hawkeyes, but Jan Jensen knows that building a successful program requires more than just one player.
The focus now shifts to recruiting and developing a roster that can sustain success for years to come. Jensen and her staff are already working to identify the next wave of talent that can complement Olsen and elevate the team to even greater heights.
“We’re always looking ahead,” Jensen said. “Getting Lucy was a huge win for us, but we want to ensure that we have the depth and versatility to compete year after year. That means recruiting players who buy into our vision and are ready to work.”
The program’s reputation, combined with the opportunity to play alongside a talent like Olsen, will undoubtedly attract top recruits. With the foundation laid by Clark and the new leadership under Jensen, the future of Iowa women’s basketball looks bright.
Lucy Olsen: Need-Based Recruitment
The transfer portal has revolutionized college sports by giving athletes the flexibility to switch programs more freely, but it also poses challenges for coaches in terms of roster management and team chemistry.
Jan Jensen is no stranger to these complexities. When asked about her approach to using the portal, Jensen emphasized that her focus is always on identifying and addressing specific needs within the team rather than making drastic changes for the sake of immediate improvement.
“Our philosophy has been to use it strictly for need-based recruitment, not necessarily to get better right away,” Jensen explained.
“It’s more about long-term development and ensuring that each player we bring in serves a purpose that complements the team dynamic.”
Jensen’s strategy contrasts with the approaches of some programs that prioritize quick fixes and instant results through heavy reliance on transfers. For her, the goal is to find athletes who not only fit Iowa’s system but also embody the values and work ethic that the coaching staff prioritizes.
Finding the Right Fit: Prioritizing Team Culture Over Quick Fixes
In an era where quick turnarounds and instant gratification are often sought, Iowa’s strategy under Jensen’s guidance stands out.
The head coach elaborated on the importance of finding players who align with the program’s culture. Rather than chasing the most talented players in the portal, she looks for those who can seamlessly integrate into the team and contribute to a positive environment.
“We look for players who are not just good athletes but also great teammates. It’s crucial to have individuals who buy into our program’s vision and are willing to put the team first,” Jensen stated.
This approach has served Iowa well, as they have been able to maintain a strong, cohesive unit year after year. The emphasis on team culture has helped create a program that is not only competitive but also a destination for players who are looking for more than just playing time.
Conference Expansion and Its Impact on the Big Ten
The recent expansion of the Big Ten Conference, which now includes former Pac-12 schools Oregon, UCLA, USC, and Washington, has been a hot topic among coaches and analysts alike.
Jan Jensen shared her thoughts on how the additions will impact the competition level within the conference and what it means for Iowa moving forward.
“I think all of us in the Big Ten love the competitive nature of our conference,” she said. “Inviting those programs in adds another layer of difficulty, but it’s also a tremendous opportunity for us to test ourselves against some of the best teams in the country.”
With the new members joining, the Big Ten is poised to become one of the toughest conferences in women’s basketball.
Jensen acknowledged that while the expansion presents challenges, it also elevates the overall profile of the conference, making it an attractive destination for recruits and fans alike.
Lucy Olsen: Preparing for a New Era of Competition
Jensen was candid about the adjustments Iowa will need to make in preparation for the heightened level of competition. She stressed the importance of maintaining focus and not underestimating any opponent, whether old or new.
“There’s no ‘cupcake’ games in the Big Ten,” Jensen noted. “Each game is a battle, and with the addition of these programs, we’re going to have to be at our best every night. It’s about bringing the same energy and intensity, whether we’re playing Maryland or USC.”
The expansion also presents logistical challenges, such as increased travel and longer road trips. However, Jensen views these as minor obstacles in the broader context of competing in what could soon be the premier women’s basketball conference in the nation.
Building a Schedule for Success: Iowa’s Early Season Matchups
As the season approaches, Iowa is preparing to kick off its campaign with a series of competitive matchups designed to test the team’s readiness.
They begin with an exhibition game against Missouri Western at the Carver-Hawkeye Arena on October 30, which will serve as a tune-up for the regular season.
Following the exhibition, Iowa will officially start its season at home against Northern Illinois on November 6.
Jensen and her staff have carefully crafted the non-conference schedule to provide a balance of challenging opponents and opportunities to develop team chemistry early in the season.
“We want to use these early games to fine-tune our strategies and get a feel for our rotations,” Jensen said. “It’s also a chance for our players to gain confidence and experience before we dive into the grueling Big Ten schedule.”
Lucy Olsen: Promotion
Lucy Olsen teamed up in a paid promotion with the clothing brand Raygun Shirts and attached purchase link on her instagram bio.
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Developing Talent and Preparing for a Successful Season
- One of Jensen’s primary focuses this season will be on player development. With a mix of returning veterans and new faces, it’s crucial for the team to gel quickly.
- The early-season games will be pivotal in helping Jensen evaluate how the new players are integrating and how the team is executing both offensively and defensively.
- “We’re looking to see growth in all areas — not just in individual skill sets but also in how we function as a unit,” she explained.
- “Every game is an opportunity to get better, and that’s the mindset we want our players to embrace.”
- With a strong roster and a well-defined philosophy, expectations are high for Iowa this season.
- While the team aims to compete for a Big Ten title, Jensen is also focused on the bigger picture. She wants to see continuous improvement and a commitment to playing the right way.
- “We have a great group of players who are willing to put in the work,” Jensen said. “Our goal is to take it one game at a time and see how far we can go.
- We believe in our process, and we’re excited to see what this team can achieve.”
Also Read: Iowa Star Kylie Feuerbach Cites Caitlin Clark as Key Factor in Transfer Decision
