Top 7 Destinations for Audi Crooks After Leaving Iowa State

Top 7 Destinations for Audi Crooks After Leaving Iowa State

After a standout three-year career with the Iowa State Cyclones, Audi Crooks has entered the transfer portal following a disappointing first-round exit in the 2026 NCAA tournament. Crooks, a prominent figure in women’s college basketball, averaged 25.8 points per game this season, ranking second in Division I. With a shooting percentage of 65%, she has established herself as one of the most efficient scorers in the sport.

Top 7 Destinations for Audi Crooks After Leaving Iowa State

Crooks, a 6’3” powerhouse, is also eligible for the 2026 WNBA Draft. Should she opt to remain in college basketball, she is poised to be a highly sought-after asset in the transfer portal. Despite some defensive shortcomings, her scoring ability positions her as a top recruit. Several schools are expected to show interest in Crooks, each offering unique advantages.

1. TCU

TCU has a history of recruiting top talent from the transfer portal. After making it to the Elite Eight this season, they could certainly benefit from Crooks’ scoring prowess. With existing talents like Clara Silva, a pairing with Crooks could significantly enhance their frontcourt.

2. USC

The USC Trojans are home to several promising players, including JuJu Watkins and Jazzy Davidson. Adding Crooks could revitalize the team’s frontcourt, although team dynamics and spacing may pose challenges. However, her skills could lead to a potent offensive lineup.

3. Texas

Fresh off a Final Four appearance, Texas could make use of Crooks’ scoring abilities alongside star forward Madison Booker. The potential shift from a more defensive style to a scoring-focused approach with Crooks presents an interesting opportunity for the Longhorns.

4. Notre Dame

Notre Dame is in need of a strong interior presence following their Elite Eight loss. Crooks’ ability to dominate in the paint could complement point guard Hannah Hidalgo, creating a formidable duo for the Fighting Irish.

5. LSU

LSU experienced a tough Sweet 16 exit but remains a competitive program. Coach Kim Mulkey has a knack for attracting talent from the transfer portal, and Crooks would add significant firepower to the team’s frontcourt.

6. Michigan

After reaching the Elite Eight, Michigan could greatly benefit from Crooks’ scoring talent. Her presence would not only enhance their offense but also provide a valuable option for kickouts to three-point shooters like Syla Swords.

7. Minnesota

Having made the Sweet 16, Minnesota could utilize a player like Crooks in their system. With players like Tori McKinney and Grace Grocholski returning, Crooks might fit perfectly into a slower-paced game, enabling her scoring capabilities to shine.

Crooks’ decision will be closely watched as she weighs her options, either pursuing a professional career or continuing her college journey at a new institution. Her immediate future in women’s college basketball is poised to draw interest from many elite programs looking to elevate their competitiveness.

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