Audi Crooks Enters Transfer Portal: A Significant Shift in Women’s College Basketball
In a stunning development, Iowa State star Audi Crooks announced on Thursday her intention to enter the NCAA transfer portal. This move marks a pivotal moment for the Cyclones program, as Crooks is the fourth starter and the tenth player overall to seek opportunities elsewhere following a season of contrasting fortunes. Despite a promising start that mirrored the program’s best, a disappointing second half ultimately led to this wave of departures.
Crooks, widely recognized as one of the most popular and dominant players in women’s college basketball, finished the season averaging an impressive 25.8 points per game, ranking second nationally. Over her three seasons with the Cyclones, she amassed a total of 22.8 points per game across 99 games, solidifying her status as a key player since being recruited from Algona, Iowa.
Crooks’ Statement and Reasons for Transfer
In a heartfelt social media post, Crooks expressed her belief in nurturing growth wherever one invests their efforts. “I still believe the grass is greener where you water it, and I’ve done that here,” she stated. “It’s why I want you to hear from me directly that I have decided to enter the portal and explore what it means to take root again in new ground.” This suggests a desire for a new environment where she can continue to flourish and potentially maximize her opportunities.
Impact on the Iowa State Cyclones
Crooks joins Addy Brown, Mackenzie Hare, and Jada Williams as starters entering the transfer portal, alongside six reserve players. Arianna Jackson is the only starter confirmed to return next season. Coach Bill Fennelly acknowledged the significant changes occurring in college sports, stating, “While I am sad and disappointed that some of our players have chosen to pursue other opportunities, I want to thank them for their time at Iowa State and wish them all the best as they move on.”
Athletic director Jamie Pollard emphasized the evolving landscape of college athletics, particularly the increasing importance of revenue-sharing opportunities for players. He assured fans that Coach Fennelly will return for his 32nd season and that Iowa State remains an attractive destination for top talent, bolstered by strong fan support, a rich history, and a dedicated coaching staff. Pollard also indicated the program will have sufficient revenue-share funds to attract high-caliber student-athletes.
Crooks’ Stellar Career and Future Prospects
The Cyclones began the season with a remarkable 14-0 record, matching their best start since the 2013-14 season, and climbed to a No. 10 ranking for five consecutive weeks. However, a subsequent five-game losing streak led to a tie for seventh place in the Big 12 conference at 10-8. They received an No. 8 seed in the NCAA Tournament but lost their opening game to Syracuse 72-63.
Audi Crooks stands out as the most prominent name in the transfer portal thus far. A three-time All-Big 12 first-team selection, she boasts an impressive streak of 98 consecutive games scoring in double figures – the longest active streak in the nation. Her breakout performance as a freshman, scoring 40 points in an NCAA Tournament victory over Maryland, catapulted her into the national spotlight. Known for her dominance in the low post, she recorded at least 30 points in 17 games over three seasons and surpassed 40 points four times this season, earning her a spot on the Associated Press All-America second team.
Beyond the Court: NIL Deals and Community Involvement
Crooks’ impact extended beyond the basketball court. She actively engaged with fans and secured lucrative name, image, and likeness (NIL) deals with prominent brands like the Iowa Pork Producers and US Cellular. She generously used her earnings to support her alma mater, Bishop Garrigan in Algona, by purchasing new uniforms, and contributed to other local causes.
Further Reading: AP March Madness Bracket and AP Coverage of March Madness
