Just days into WNBA training camp, drama is already brewing in D.C. — and Lucy Olsen is right in the middle of it. After glowing early reviews from the Washington Mystics coaching staff, head coach Eric Thibault has quickly backtracked on how ready Olsen is for a major role. Add to that the heartbreaking ACL injury to fellow rookie Georgia Amoore, and the Mystics’ backcourt suddenly looks unstable — and under pressure.

From Praise to Doubt — What Changed?

Only a week ago, Coach Thibault publicly praised Lucy Olsen’s composure, saying she was “playing like a pro, not a rookie.” But following a few shaky scrimmage performances and concerns over her defensive reads, the tone shifted drastically.

“We’re taking things day by day,” Thibault said in a recent interview.
“Lucy’s got talent, but we’re not rushing anything. She’s still learning the system.”

Fans and media were quick to notice the change — and many are calling it a flip-flop. Olsen went from being hyped as a potential rotation player to possibly getting limited minutes to start the season.

Lucy Olsen Responds: “I Know Who I Am.”

In the face of sudden doubt, Lucy Olsen isn’t backing down. Speaking to reporters after practice, the Villanova product addressed the shift head-on.

“I’m here to compete and grow. I’ve never let outside opinions define my game — and I won’t start now,” Olsen said.
“Every rookie has ups and downs. I’m built for this.”

The 5’9″ guard emphasized her focus is on getting better every day, adding that criticism is nothing new to her journey:

“At the end of the day, all I can control is how hard I work and how much I listen.”

Georgia Amoore’s ACL Injury — Devastating Blow for the Mystics

In a crushing turn of events, rookie guard Georgia Amoore — drafted just ahead of Olsen — suffered an ACL tear during a routine drill at training camp. She will miss the entire 2025 season, according to team doctors.

The news hit the team hard.

“It’s heartbreaking,” Coach Thibault said. “Georgia worked so hard to get here. She’ll bounce back, but it’s a tough loss for all of us.”

Amoore’s injury suddenly reopens the door for Olsen to take on more responsibility — especially with the Mystics needing guard depth and playmaking in her absence.

Now or Never for Lucy?

With the backcourt rotation shaken up and the team still finding its rhythm, Lucy Olsen might have gone from “slow development” to “next woman up” overnight.

“I’m ready, no matter what’s thrown at me,” Olsen said. “That’s what pros do.”

Fans are watching closely — and so is the league. Olsen may have been counted out by some, but between Georgia Amoore’s injury and the team’s shifting plans, the opportunity is very real.

Final Thoughts: A Rookie’s Roller Coaster

From high praise, to doubt, to unexpected opportunity, Lucy Olsen’s WNBA start has already been a whirlwind. But her attitude, resilience, and confidence suggest she’s not fazed — and maybe, just maybe, this is the start of a comeback arc we’ll be talking about all season.

As for the Mystics, the pressure is on — and so are the cameras.