Iowa State junior center Audi Crooks is emerging as a potential star in college basketball. After being ranked 57th among high school prospects by espnW, she is proving that she has the talent and skill to exceed expectations.
Audi Crooks: A Rising Star for Iowa State
During her freshman year, Crooks caught the attention of basketball fans with her ability to dominate in the paint. Despite a disappointing performance against Stanford in the NCAA Tournament, she has continued to grow as a player. Last season, during the Round of 64 in the NCAA Tournament, Crooks scored 28 points against Michigan, although it was not enough to secure a win. Critics have labeled her as a “regular-season player,” questioning whether her performance can be replicated in high-stakes tournament play.
Offensive Contributions and Unique Challenges
Iowa State’s offensive strategy heavily relies on Crooks’ scoring ability. She presents a dilemma for opposing teams: they can either defend the perimeter or focus on containing her inside. Consequently, Iowa State ranks 13th nationally for three-point shooting, with an impressive 38.2% accuracy. For example, in a recent game against Kansas, Crooks scored an incredible 41 points, showcasing her ability to dominate when needed.
The Need for Consistency
Despite Crooks’ scoring prowess, her impact can fluctuate dramatically. When she struggles, so does Iowa State. Critics point out several of her limitations, including defensive shortcomings and her inability to stretch the floor, which can hinder her effectiveness in key moments. To sustain success, Crooks must refine her game and ensure she remains impactful, even on off nights.
Current Season Highlights
As Iowa State heads into conference play, Crooks is making headlines. She is currently the national leader in scoring, averaging 29.4 points per game, and has a remarkable field goal percentage of 72.5%. These statistics suggest she is having one of the most impressive scoring seasons in the history of women’s basketball.
The Cyclones boast a sixth-highest scoring offense in college basketball and hold an impressive 14-0 record, positioning them at No. 10 in the latest AP Poll. With the team shooting 60% on two-pointers and 38% from beyond the arc, they have the potential to make a significant impact this season.
A Bright Future Ahead
As Crooks continues to develop, her role is becoming essential to Iowa State’s championship aspirations. While she may not score 30 points every game, if she can maintain a baseline of performance—such as scoring 14 points on a less productive night—she can help her team achieve its goals. Crooks’ evolution as a player may allow her to consistently perform at a high level while diminishing the impact of potential off games.
With her current trajectory, Audi Crooks is on the verge of becoming a household name in women’s basketball. Her remarkable performance and leadership could very well propel Iowa State to greater heights this season.
