After being selected by the WNBA’s Washington Mystics, Lucy Olsen is finally speaking out. In her first exclusive interview since the draft, the rising basketball star reflects on her time with the Iowa Hawkeyes, opening up about the highs, the lows, and the invaluable lessons she’s learned along the way.

Olsen’s journey to the WNBA has been anything but easy. From her early years on the court to her breakout performances with the Hawkeyes, she has faced countless challenges and obstacles, all of which have shaped her into the player she is today. In her interview, Olsen speaks candidly about the struggles she encountered and the personal growth she’s undergone during her college career.

The Hawkeyes Journey: Triumphs and Challenges

As one of the standout players on the Iowa women’s basketball team, Olsen’s name quickly became synonymous with success. She helped lead the team to multiple victories, cementing her place as one of the top prospects in the country.

However, it wasn’t all smooth sailing. Olsen recalls the long hours of training, the physical and mental strain of balancing academics and athletics, and the pressure to perform at the highest level. “It was tough, especially in those first few years,” she says. “I had to learn how to deal with the pressure, both on and off the court. There were moments when I wanted to give up, but I realized that the only way to succeed was to keep pushing.”

Her resilience paid off. Olsen developed into one of the most feared players in college basketball, earning numerous accolades along the way. But her growth wasn’t just about her basketball skills.

Personal Growth: A Transformation Beyond Basketball

Throughout her journey with the Hawkeyes, Olsen found herself evolving not only as a player but as a person. “It changed me, both on and off the court,” she admits. “The experiences I had, the people I met, and the challenges I faced all taught me things about myself that I never expected.”

Olsen credits her coaches, teammates, and mentors for playing a key role in her development. “I’ve learned so much from the people around me,” she says. “I’ve learned to trust in myself, to lean on others when I need to, and to never take anything for granted. It’s not just about basketball. It’s about who you become along the way.”

One of the most important lessons Olsen has carried with her is the importance of perseverance. “The road wasn’t always easy,” she reflects. “There were times when it felt like everything was against me. But those were the times I learned the most. It taught me to keep going, no matter how hard things got.”

Looking Ahead: The Future with the Mystics

Now, as she prepares to take the next step in her career with the Washington Mystics, Olsen is ready to embrace the challenges of professional basketball. “It’s a dream come true,” she says of being drafted by the Mystics. “I’ve worked so hard for this moment, and now it’s finally here. I’m excited to play at the next level and continue growing.”

Olsen’s focus now is on making the most of the opportunity before her. “I know that the competition is tough, but I’m ready for it,” she says confidently. “I’ve learned how to push through adversity, and I plan to bring that mindset to every game I play. I want to show people that I belong in this league.”

Though she’s looking forward to the future, Olsen isn’t forgetting the lessons she’s learned from her time with the Hawkeyes. “I want to continue growing as both a player and a person,” she says. “I’m taking everything I’ve learned with me and using it to fuel my journey in the WNBA.”

A New Chapter Begins

As Olsen embarks on this new chapter with the Washington Mystics, her story serves as a powerful reminder of the value of perseverance, self-belief, and growth. Her emotional journey from college to the pros is one of triumph over adversity, and as she steps onto the professional stage, there’s no doubt that her best is yet to come.

Don’t miss the chance to follow Lucy Olsen’s journey as she takes the WNBA by storm. This is just the beginning of what promises to be an incredible career.