Audi Crooks, a two-time All-American and the second-leading scorer in the nation this season, has announced her intention to leave Iowa State and enter the transfer portal. This decision comes as a significant blow to the Cyclones, who have relied heavily on Crooks, averaging an impressive 25.8 points and 7.7 rebounds per game during her tenure.
Throughout her three seasons at Iowa State, Crooks has been a dominant force, leading the Big 12 in scoring for two consecutive years and scoring a remarkable 820 points as a sophomore. Despite her individual accolades, the team has struggled to make a mark in the NCAA Tournament, failing to advance past the first weekend during Crooks’ time with the program.
With Crooks’ departure, she becomes the ninth player from Iowa State’s 2025-26 roster to enter the transfer portal, leaving the team with only three returning players for the upcoming season. This mass exodus raises questions about the future of the program under head coach Bill Fennelly, who expressed sadness over the situation but also gratitude for Crooks’ contributions.
“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,” Fennelly stated.
Jamie Pollard, Iowa State’s Athletic Director, reassured fans that there is a plan in place to rebuild the team. “Rest assured, he has a great plan for how he’s going to repopulate his staff in order to continue our success in men’s basketball,” Pollard remarked, hinting at a broader strategy to maintain competitiveness.
As for Crooks, she has one season of eligibility remaining and will likely attract significant interest from other programs looking to bolster their rosters. Her decision to leave Iowa State reflects a growing trend in college athletics, where players seek better opportunities and environments to showcase their talents.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding Crooks’ potential destinations, but her scoring prowess and experience make her a valuable asset for any team in need of offensive firepower. Observers are keenly watching how this situation unfolds, particularly in light of Iowa State’s current roster challenges.
In a heartfelt farewell, Crooks expressed her gratitude to the Iowa State community, stating, “Thank you all for embracing me and showing up to Hilton every single game day.” Her departure marks the end of a significant chapter for both her and the Cyclones, leaving fans to ponder what lies ahead for the program.
