It’s senior year for Iowa’s basketball star Lucy, and she’s ready to bring the heat. With new teammates, a sold-out arena, and the weight of expectations, Lucy is embracing the challenge head-on. In an exclusive interview, she reveals just how excited she is to step onto the court this season.

“I’m so excited!” Lucy gushes, as she talks about playing with an entirely new set of girls. Despite being new to each other, she says it feels like she’s known them forever. “We just clicked,” she says, emphasizing how the off-court chemistry is already translating into great teamwork on the floor. But with a whole new group, the big question remains: Can they recreate the magic of last season?

With the Hawkeyes moving into a new era without Caitlin Clark, who dominated the NCAA before heading to the WNBA, the pressure is on for Lucy to step up. After all, Lucy was the number three scorer in the nation last year, right behind Caitlin and JuJu Watkins. But is she feeling that pressure? Not really, she says. “I just want to win. If I need to score, I’ll score. But it’s not about taking Caitlin’s spot—it’s about building a whole new era.”

Lucy also opened up about her decision to join Iowa, calling it love at first sight—literally. “When I entered the transfer portal, it felt like speed dating. Iowa was my first visit, and I just knew it was home. The coaches didn’t even talk basketball much; they were more focused on me as a person. That meant everything to me.”

And then there’s the fan love—before even playing a game, Lucy was already getting stopped for photos! “It’s crazy! I haven’t even stepped on the court yet, and fans are already asking for pictures. It’s wild, but it’s all about the love here.” She says the fanbase’s support gives her and her teammates extra motivation. “We remind each other every day—these people are here to watch us. They don’t have to be, but they want to be.”

With a sold-out arena for the second straight season, Iowa women’s basketball is clearly a big deal, and Lucy is ready to rise to the occasion. But what about the future beyond Iowa? She’s keeping her focus on the here and now. “I can’t control what people say about me or the team. We just stay within our circle and focus on each other.”

As for her offseason work, Lucy has been grinding on perfecting her pick-and-roll game. “It’s such a big part of basketball, especially now that I’m playing with Hannah Stuelke. I’ve got to find her in the pocket.” Lucy is clearly sharpening her skills to ensure that she’s ready for whatever comes her way.

Of course, it wouldn’t be an interview without some rapid-fire questions. When asked to choose who takes the final shot—LeBron or Steph?—Lucy eventually lands on Kobe Bryant. “It’s always Kobe. Mamba Mentality!”

With her senior year underway, all eyes are on Lucy. Can she lead the Hawkeyes into a new era without Caitlin Clark? Will she live up to the hype as one of the nation’s top scorers? One thing’s for sure—Lucy’s ready to give it her all.

Don’t miss out as Iowa’s women’s basketball team takes on the season with sold-out crowds, new stars, and high expectations! Will Lucy lead the charge in this new era for the Hawkeyes? Stay tuned!