There’s trouble brewing in D.C.—and it’s not just about roster cuts.

Lucy Olsen, the talented guard from Villanova and one of the more intriguing picks of the 2024 WNBA Draft, was noticeably absent from several Washington Mystics rookie activities this week. And now, whispers around the league are growing louder:

WNBA draft projections for Iowa players ft. Lucy Olsen

Is Lucy Olsen already on the outside looking in?

From Draft Hope to Depth Chart Doubts

When the Mystics selected Lucy Olsen, fans were excited. She was a dynamic scorer in college, known for her handles, her court awareness, and a never-back-down mentality. She wasn’t the flashiest pick of the draft—but she was seen as a potential high-upside, smart fit for a team in transition.

But just weeks into training camp, Olsen’s journey to a WNBA roster spot is looking rocky.

Women's Basketball: Lucy Olsen selected by Washington Mystics in 2nd round  of 2025 WNBA Draft - Black Heart Gold Pants

According to sources close to the team, Olsen was not included in multiple rookie bonding events and team-run promotional activities. While no official reason has been given, her absence has raised questions about her role in the team’s future—or whether she has one at all.

The Numbers Game: Mystics’ Roster Is STACKED

To be fair, Olsen’s uphill battle might have little to do with talent—and everything to do with numbers. The Mystics’ backcourt is already loaded with veterans and young returners.
With only 12 roster spots allowed in the WNBA, tough cuts are inevitable.

Lucy Olsen is heading to the Washington Mystics after the 2025 WNBA Draft

“It’s not a question of whether Lucy can play,” one league insider shared. “It’s about whether there’s even room for her to show it.”

Olsen has reportedly been solid in early practices, but not yet standout. And in a league this competitive, “solid” sometimes isn’t enough.

Team Chemistry or Internal Politics?

Some fans have speculated whether being left out of rookie social content was a sign of a deeper issue—chemistry concerns, communication breakdowns, or simply front office decisions already being made.

Iowa's Lucy Olsen selected by Washington Mystics in 2025 WNBA Draft

The Mystics, to their credit, have said nothing publicly—and Olsen herself has kept it classy, continuing to work hard and stay locked in at practice.

“All I can do is control what I bring every day,” Olsen said in a brief post-practice interview. “No distractions. Just basketball.”

What’s Next for Lucy?

With final cuts looming, Lucy Olsen’s spot on the team hangs in the balance. If she’s waived, expect other teams to keep a close eye—her college tape and competitive edge are too good to ignore.

Iowa's Lucy Olsen named Big Ten newcomer of the year by USA TODAY Sports

 

 

Whether she makes the Mystics roster or not, one thing is certain: Lucy Olsen isn’t done.
She’s just getting started—and she’s got something to prove.

Final Word: Don’t Count Her Out

The WNBA is ruthless. Every year, good players get cut, and promising talent slips through the cracks—not because they aren’t good enough, but because there just isn’t enough space.

 

But if there’s one thing Lucy Olsen has always done?
Defy expectations.

And maybe, just maybe, this is the beginning of a bigger story.