Audi Crooks has been a significant player for Iowa State, leading in scoring and earning All-American honors. Recently, she announced her intention to leave Iowa State and enter the transfer portal, a move that has sent ripples through the women’s basketball community.
This season, Crooks was the second-leading scorer in the country, averaging an impressive 25.8 points per game and 7.7 rebounds. Her performance has made her a standout athlete, and she has led the Big 12 in scoring for two consecutive years. Notably, she scored 820 points as a sophomore, leading the nation.
Despite her individual success, Iowa State struggled to advance in the NCAA Tournament during Crooks’ three seasons, failing to make it out of the first weekend. This lack of postseason success may have influenced her decision to seek new opportunities.
Crooks is the ninth member of Iowa State’s 2025-26 roster to enter the transfer portal, leaving the team with only three returning players next season. This mass exodus raises questions about the future of the program.
In her statement, Crooks expressed gratitude to the fans, saying, “Thank you all for embracing me and showing up to Hilton every single game day.” Her departure marks a significant turning point for both her and the Iowa State program.
Bill Fennelly, head coach of Iowa State’s women’s basketball team, acknowledged the situation, 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.” This sentiment reflects the challenges faced by the team as they navigate this transition.
Jamie Pollard, the Athletic Director at Iowa State, remains optimistic about the future, assuring that there is a plan to rebuild the team. He stated, “Rest assured, has a great plan for how he’s going to repopulate his staff in order to continue our success in men’s basketball.” This commitment to future success is crucial as the program faces significant changes.
As for Crooks, she has one season of eligibility remaining after leaving Iowa State, leaving her options open for her next destination. Observers are keen to see where she will land and how her talents will be utilized in a new environment.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding the specific reasons behind Crooks’ decision, but her impact on the court and the program will undoubtedly be felt for years to come.
