Top NCAA Star Audi Crooks Enters Transfer Portal: What This Means for Her Future

In a significant development in women’s college basketball, Audi Crooks from Iowa State University has announced her intention to enter the transfer portal. This decision follows an impressive three-year tenure with the Cyclones, during which she emerged as one of the top players on the collegiate scene.

Dominance on the Court

During her time at Iowa State, Crooks consistently delivered strong performances:

• Freshman Year: Averaged 19.2 points per game.
• Sophomore Year: Improved her scoring to 23.4 points per game.
• Junior Year (2025-26): Culminated her career with an outstanding 25.8 points per game, ranking her second in the nation.

Recognition and Achievements

Her remarkable contributions earned her second-team All-American honors this season. Crooks not only excelled in scoring but also demonstrated her all-around game:

• Rebounds Per Game: Maintained an impressive mark of 7.0 across all three seasons.
• Assists: Averaged 1.7 assists and 0.8 blocks in her junior year.
• Efficiency: Achieved a shooting percentage of 64.9% throughout the season.

Credit: Getty Images

Quote from Crooks

In her Instagram post announcing her transfer, Crooks expressed:

"I still believe the grass is greener where you water it, and I’ve done that here. 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."

The Exit from Iowa State

Crooks’ decision comes on the heels of a disappointing 72-63 loss to Syracuse in the NCAA Tournament’s first round, where she showcased her scoring ability by dropping 37 points. Despite her offensive firepower, her defensive performance has been a topic of scrutiny.

Criticism and Challenges

While Crooks is celebrated for her scoring, she has faced criticism regarding her defensive capabilities:

• Critics have pointed to her struggles in this area, with comments circulating on social media lamenting her defensive highlights.
• Barstool Sports noted, “Audi Crooks is an offensive weapon… and the biggest liability you’ve ever seen on defense.”

Future Prospects

As Crooks enters the transfer portal, she immediately becomes a coveted asset for numerous top-tier college programs. Her scoring prowess, combined with her rebounding skills, makes her an attractive option for teams looking to bolster their line-ups for the upcoming season.

Key Statistics Overview

• Points Per Game (Final Season): 25.8
• Rebounds Per Game: 7.0
• Assists Per Game: 1.7
• Blocks Per Game: 0.8
• Shooting Percentage: 64.9%

Conclusion

Audi Crooks has made a bold choice by entering the transfer portal, leaving behind a legacy as one of Iowa State’s best. Her unique skill set and proven track record ensure that she will be a highly sought-after player. Expect to see her shining brightly on a new stage next season.

For additional insights on player transfers and NCAA updates, visit ESPN and NCAA’s official site.

This shifting landscape in college basketball highlights the ever-evolving nature of student-athletes’ careers, capturing the attention of fans and analysts alike.