"Crooks has been the driving force for the Cyclones’ success, and she is deservingly getting most of the credit."
AMES, Iowa – Two-time AP All-American, Audi Crooks, is once again delivering an incredible season, solidifying herself as one of the greats of NCAA women’s college basketball. The Iowa native continues to redefine expectations, silencing critics and reshaping narratives with each explosive play.
Following a statement game against No. 11 Iowa on Wednesday,No. 10 Iowa State and Crooks have established themselves as national championship contenders. Crooks dominated the 74-69 victory, recording 30 points and 10 rebounds. Addy Brown complimented Crooks with a double-double of her own, knotting up 20 points and 12 rebounds.
Crooks has been the driving force for the Cyclones’ success, and she is deservingly getting most of the credit. The former Big 12 All-Freshman, and now AP All-American, she is in the midst of a historic campaign. Last season, Crooks reached 1,000 points in just 49 games; a historic feat. Despite facing criticism throughout her career, she has settled comments on the floor establishing herself as one of the elite players in the sport.
Few players match Crooks’ dominance. While comparisons can be made to Caitlin Clark, Crooks brings an entire new style of play to the table. Clark was renowned for her premier shooting, whereas Crooks in the exact opposite in thriving through physicality and excelling in the paint. Her ability to impose her will inside sets her apart and establishes herself as one of the most difficult matchups in the sport.
Through 11 games this season, Crooks is averaging 28 points, six rebounds, and two assists. She currently leads the nation in total points scored with 306 and led last season with 820 points. With 19 games left on the season, at this trajectory, Crooks is right on par to match or exceed last season’s performance. Achieving this stature of point scoring, while never shooting three-pointers underscores the efficiency and dominance of her game.
If Crooks maintains this level of physicality and consistency, she should be a leading candidate for the Naismith Player of the Year Award. Iowa State, led by Crooks and Brown, has emerged as the team to beat. At this moment, few programs can match the Cyclones’ dominance. As the season moves forward, all eyes will be on Iowa State and Crooks.
Key Stat
Crooks is averaging 28 points, six rebounds, and two assists this season, leading the nation in total points scored with 306.
Final Score
Iowa State 74, Iowa 69
