Women’s college basketball is currently showcasing remarkable talent, especially among prolific scorers. Leading the nation is Audi Crooks, a 6-foot-3 center from Iowa State, who is averaging an impressive 27.6 points per game in her junior season. The Iowa State Cyclones are enjoying a successful run with a perfect 10-0 record, and they are set to face No. 12 Iowa, which boasts a 9-0 record, in a highly anticipated matchup this Wednesday night at 7 p.m. ET on ESPN.
Crooks’ scoring prowess is not a recent revelation. She first captured national attention as a freshman during the 2024 NCAA tournament, where she scored 40 points against No. 10 Maryland in a first-round matchup. Her ability to find the basket has continued into this season, as she has shattered the 40-point mark twice already and has recorded eight games with 20 or more points. Her efficiency is reflected in her field goal percentage, which ranks second in the nation at 73.2. Recently, she displayed her extraordinary scoring ability by netting 30 points in just 19 minutes against Northern Illinois.
Iowa State coach Bill Fennelly remarked on Crooks’ exceptional performance, saying, “It’s not something I’ve seen, really, maybe ever.” This season, Crooks has also established a streak that is remarkable for its consistency; she has scored at least 10 points in 77 consecutive games, the longest active streak in Division I basketball. This puts her on track to join only one other player—in NBA history, Philadelphia 76ers center Joel Embiid—who has averaged at least one point per minute in a full season.
As Crooks continues to excel, opponents are left scrambling to find ways to neutralize her impact. Her efficiency and shot selection make her a difficult player to defend. Improved footwork and patience in the paint enable her to get to her desired spots, and her mid-range jump shot is noted for its smooth release. Fennelly has already warned her about the types of defensive strategies she might face, including double or triple-teams and physical contact.
The upcoming game against Iowa promises to be Crooks’ toughest challenge to date. The Hawkeyes have a versatile roster with multiple scorers and defenders, including standout sophomore guard Ava Heiden, who leads the team with averages of 16.1 points and 9.2 rebounds. Adding to the stakes, Iowa State has not triumphed over Iowa since December 2021. Nevertheless, Crooks’ teammates are optimistic. “You throw the ball to her, and it’s going in,” said Iowa State guard Reagan Wilson, indicating their confidence in Crooks’ ability to deliver when it counts. As the matchup looms, all eyes will be on Crooks to see if she can continue her remarkable scoring streak and help lead the Cyclones to victory.
