In an absolute bombshell of a week for the WNBA, two shocking stories have emerged that have left fans and analysts alike stunned and downright angry. From the Washington Mystics possibly cutting one of their rising stars, Lucy Olsen, to ESPN’s disrespectful stance on Caitlin Clark’s championship odds, it seems the league is embroiled in controversy like never before.

The Mystics’ Shocking Decision: Cutting Lucy Olsen?

The Washington Mystics, after a tumultuous offseason, are reportedly considering cutting one of their brightest young talents—Lucy Olsen. The 2024 first-round pick, who had been hailed as a future cornerstone for the team, could be on the verge of being released before the season even starts.

“This makes no sense. Olsen was supposed to be a key piece to Washington’s rebuild,” said one insider close to the Mystics. “For them to let go of a player with her talent? It’s a disaster waiting to happen.”

Olsen’s skillset, particularly her ability to shoot from deep and her defensive potential, had already drawn comparisons to some of the league’s top players. But it seems like Washington might be making the biggest mistake of the season by considering cutting her, especially with the uncertain future the Mystics are facing.

ESPN Throws Shade at Caitlin Clark’s Championship Odds

Meanwhile, ESPN, the self-proclaimed sports authority, has ignited fury among WNBA fans and pundits alike by downplaying Caitlin Clark’s championship chances in 2025. Yes, you read that right. The WNBA’s hottest rookie, the No. 1 overall pick, and a player who’s already bringing superstar-level hype—is being disrespected when it comes to championship predictions.

“To say Caitlin Clark’s championship odds aren’t as strong as some of the other players in the league is disrespectful,” said a frustrated sports analyst. “This is a player who’s led teams to championships before, and she’s already making an impact in the WNBA. Her odds should be up there with the best.”

Clark’s scoring ability, playmaking, and clutch performances have been well documented. Her addition to the Indiana Fever has not only energized the team but also supercharged their championship potential. Yet, ESPN seems to be disregarding the fact that she can turn this team into instant contenders, despite the odds.

Why This Matters: A League at a Crossroads

Both the Mystics’ possible blunder and ESPN’s disrespect toward Clark highlight the growing pains the WNBA is still facing as it gains more mainstream attention. The league has made huge strides in popularity, but moments like these show how some institutions are still out of touch with the future of the game.

Cutting Lucy Olsen would be a massive step backward for Washington, a team in desperate need of fresh talent to surround their veterans.

ESPN’s dismissal of Caitlin Clark sends a message that maybe the WNBA’s brightest stars still aren’t getting the respect they deserve.

If the league wants to continue growing, they need to stop undervaluing their emerging talent and start embracing the superstars of tomorrow.

The Bottom Line: A Season of Reckoning

If the Mystics really do cut Lucy Olsen, they risk jeopardizing their future for the sake of short-term decisions. Letting go of a high-potential player like Olsen could come back to haunt them—and no one will forget it if she goes on to become a star with another team.

And as for ESPN’s lack of faith in Caitlin Clark? It’s simply unacceptable. Clark has the potential to carry the Fever to championship contention, and her odds should reflect that. It’s clear that respect for the WNBA’s new era is still a work in progress.

One thing is for sure: the 2025 season is going to be full of drama. How these two situations unfold could define the future of both the Washington Mystics and the WNBA itself.