Audi Crooks didn’t just join Iowa State women’s basketball—she redefined it. From the moment she stepped onto the court in Ames, the young center brought a level of dominance in the paint that the Cyclones hadn’t seen in years. Her combination of size, skill, and basketball IQ turned a solid program into a national contender, capturing the attention of fans, analysts, and opponents alike. For Iowa State women’s basketball, Crooks isn’t just a player; she’s the cornerstone of a new era, one where the Cyclones are no longer an afterthought but a force to be reckoned with in the Big 12 and beyond.
From High School Standout to Cyclone Star
Before donning the Cyclone jersey, Audi Crooks was a household name in high school basketball circles. Her ability to control the paint, finish with precision, and outwork opponents made her one of the most coveted recruits in her class. When she announced her commitment to Iowa State women’s basketball, fans erupted with excitement, knowing that her talent could change the course of the program. The transition from high school to college is never easy, but Crooks made it look seamless. In her freshman year, she stepped into the starting lineup and immediately became a focal point of the team’s offense, proving that her high school success wasn’t a fluke. Coaches praised her work ethic and willingness to learn, while teammates admired her humility and team-first attitude—traits that would soon make her a leader on and off the court.
Crooks’ decision to choose Iowa State wasn’t random. She connected with the coaching staff’s vision for the program, which emphasized growth, teamwork, and competing at the highest level. The Cyclones’ culture of family resonated with her, and she saw an opportunity to build something special instead of joining a pre-established powerhouse. This choice would prove to be a game-changer for both her and Iowa State women’s basketball.
Reimagining Iowa State’s Offense
Audi Crooks’ presence in the post has forced opposing teams to completely rethink their defensive strategies. Every time she touches the ball near the basket, she draws at least one, if not two, defenders, creating open looks for her teammates on the perimeter. Iowa State women’s basketball’s offense now revolves around her ability to attract attention—guards can drive to the hoop knowing that Crooks will be there for a rebound or a putback, while shooters have more space to knock down three-pointers. This dynamic has made the Cyclones’ offense one of the most balanced in the country, with every player getting a chance to shine because of Crooks’ unselfish play.
Take, for example, a recent game against a top Big 12 rival. The opposing team spent the entire first half doubling Crooks, leaving her teammates wide open from beyond the arc. The Cyclones capitalized, knocking down shot after shot, and by the second half, the rival had to adjust—pulling one defender away from Crooks to cover the perimeter. That’s when Crooks took over, scoring at will in the post and finishing the game as the team’s leading scorer without even forcing shots. Moments like these highlight how Crooks’ presence transforms Iowa State women’s basketball’s offense into a versatile, hard-to-stop machine.
Even when she’s not scoring, her impact is felt: opponents spend so much energy trying to contain her that they’re exhausted by the end of the game, giving the Cyclones an edge in the fourth quarter. Coaches often talk about how Crooks makes everyone around her better, and it’s easy to see why—her ability to read defenses and make the right pass at the right time turns good plays into great ones.
Defensive Anchor and Team Leader
While Crooks is best known for her offensive prowess, her contributions on defense are just as vital to Iowa State women’s basketball’s success. She’s a dominant shot-blocker, using her height and timing to swat away attempts at the rim, and her rebounding ability ensures that the Cyclones control the glass, limiting opponents’ second-chance opportunities. Beyond her physical skills, Crooks is a vocal leader on defense, directing her teammates to the right positions and encouraging them to stay focused.
Her intensity is contagious; when she dives for a loose ball or contests a shot with all her might, the rest of the team follows suit. In a key conference game last season, the Cyclones were trailing by a few points in the third quarter when Crooks made a series of back-to-back blocks, igniting the crowd and sparking a comeback. From that moment on, the team’s defense tightened up, and they went on to win the game by double digits. For the Cyclones, Crooks isn’t just a defensive anchor—she’s the heart of their defensive identity.
Off the court, Crooks is equally influential. She’s often seen mentoring younger players, helping them adjust to college life and refine their skills. She leads by example, showing up early to practice and staying late to work on her game. Her teammates describe her as a “big sister” figure, someone they can turn to for advice or support. This leadership has helped foster a close-knit team culture, which is essential for success in the competitive world of college basketball.
Iowa State Women’s Basketball: A Program on the Rise
Since Audi Crooks arrived, Iowa State women’s basketball has experienced a resurgence. The Cyclones have climbed the Big 12 standings, earning respect from rivals like Baylor and Texas. Fan attendance at Hilton Coliseum has skyrocketed, with fans packing the arena to watch Crooks and her teammates play. The program has also gained national attention, with more games being broadcast on major networks and analysts predicting deep runs in the NCAA Tournament.
This newfound success isn’t just about Crooks—it’s about the entire team working together—but there’s no denying that she’s the catalyst. Her talent and charisma have put Iowa State women’s basketball back on the map, and fans are eager to see how far the team can go with her leading the way. The Cyclones’ coaching staff has built a roster around Crooks, bringing in players who complement her skills and share her commitment to winning. This synergy has made Iowa State one of the most exciting teams to watch in women’s college basketball.
Looking Ahead to Championship Dreams
As Audi Crooks enters her junior year, the future of Iowa State women’s basketball looks brighter than ever. She continues to improve her game, adding new moves to her post repertoire and becoming a more consistent shooter from the free-throw line. The team around her is also growing, with young players stepping up and veterans providing leadership. For the Cyclones, the goal is clear: win a Big 12 championship and make a deep run in the NCAA Tournament.
Crooks is focused on the present, but she’s also aware of the legacy she wants to leave at Iowa State. She wants to be remembered not just for her on-court success, but for helping to build a program that will continue to thrive long after she’s gone. Her teammates share this vision, and together, they’re working tirelessly to turn their championship dreams into reality.
Conclusion
Audi Crooks has transformed Iowa State women’s basketball into a contender. Her dominance in the paint, leadership on and off the court, and unselfish play have made her one of the most exciting players in college basketball today. For the Cyclones, she’s more than just a star—she’s the pillar of their resurgence, a player who has changed the program’s identity and inspired a new generation of fans.
As Iowa State women’s basketball continues to grow, one thing is certain: Audi Crooks will be remembered as one of the greatest players to ever wear a Cyclone jersey. Her impact goes beyond wins and losses; it’s about the way she’s brought the community together, the way she’s made young girls believe they can achieve anything, and the way she’s redefined what it means to be a Cyclone. In the world of college basketball, Audi Crooks is a name that will be talked about for years to come.