>In a practice session ahead of the matchup against USC. Clark trained with the team, which turned out to be a key factor in anticipating the playing style of Trojans superstar JuJu Watkins. Lucy Olsen, Iowa’s current standout, highlighted how Clark presence served as the best possible simulation for facing Watkins’ offensive firepower.
“It was amazing to have [Clark] there,” Olsen said in an interview with Rachel DeMita for Courtside Club. “She challenged us with tough shots, just like JuJu does. So when Watkins scored in the game, we were already prepared. We weren’t surprised because we had seen it the day before with Caitlin all over us.”
Lucy Olsen on the advice Caitlin gave Iowa before the USC game
“Anything could happen. Just go out we didn’t really have any pressure. So just go play free.” pic.twitter.com/Lf74nUVhhj— correlation (@nosyone4) February 24, 2025
A game-changing practice and an unforgettable win
The session with Caitlin Clark paid off. Iowa defeated USC 76-69, limiting Watkins to just 1 of 7 from beyond the arc and 8 of 22 from the field despite her 27 points.
In contrast, Olsen shone with 28 points, solidifying her role as the team’s star with an average of 17.2 points per game this season.
Meanwhile, Watkins continues to dominate with 24.2 points per game, leading USC to a 25-2 record. However, one of those losses came at the hands of Iowa, in a game where Clark had a silent but decisive impact.
After the victory, Caitlin Clark watched as her legendary number 22 ascended into the rafters of the arena. Honoring her legacy at Iowa. But beyond the recognition, she left one final lesson: her influence on the Hawkeyes remains as strong as ever.
