Audi Crooks was already a social phenomenon in the United States before she stepped into the NCAA. Her impressive physical stature – standing at 6’3″ and weighing over 220 pounds, yet moving with incredible agility – made her a recognizable figure during her high school days at Bishop Garrigan. Now, in her second season with the Iowa State University Cyclones, she has blossomed into a full-fledged star. Averaging 23 points per game with a remarkable 59.7% field goal percentage, she’s the seventh-highest scorer in the competition, making her a formidable force to be reckoned with. Additionally, she grabs 7.7 rebounds in 28.9 minutes on the court, leaving opponents struggling to contain her.
As one of the faces of the NCAA, Audi exudes a warm and approachable personality, always flashing a bright smile during press conferences. She has landed lucrative endorsement deals, providing her with substantial NIL (name, image, or likeness) income. With Caitlin Clark’s departure to the WNBA, Audi has emerged as the new star of women’s sports in Iowa. During her high school days, she demonstrated her immense potential by scoring 2,734 points – the third-highest mark in state history. Her team, Bishop Garrigan, achieved an impressive 101-8 record during her four-year tenure.
Champion in Shot Put and Discus Throw
Before committing to basketball, Audi explored other sports, including shot put and discus throw, where she became a state champion. She also excelled in volleyball, showcasing her athletic prowess. Born to parents who were accomplished high school athletes, Audi’s natural talent was evident from the start. Weighing 10.8 pounds and measuring 28 inches at birth, she was destined for greatness.
Audi’s physical presence has been a defining aspect of her life, making her a dominant force on the court. Her strength and agility allow her to outmaneuver opponents, leaving them struggling to keep up. However, her physique has also made her a target for insults, mockery, and derogatory comments, which she has faced since childhood.
“I may get 100 comments about my body or appearance, but I also get 1,000 comments about my skills, character, smile, and how I treat others,” Audi says, choosing to focus on the positive aspects. “If you’re making a comment, it’s because you’re watching me. You turned on the TV to see me play and say something bad. That’s incredible. I love it. Thanks for being my audience.”
Doubts About Her Performance in the NCAA
Audi’s physical build initially raised concerns about her performance in the NCAA. Despite receiving offers from numerous universities, she opted for Iowa State, close to her hometown of Algona. In her first year, she underwent a transformation, shedding over 40 pounds to reach her current weight of around 220 pounds. Initially, she aimed to play just 10 minutes per game but ended up averaging 26.2 minutes, scoring 19.2 points, and grabbing 7.8 rebounds per outing.
Audi’s impact was immediate, but it wasn’t until last year’s March Madness that she truly exploded onto the scene. In a remarkable comeback against Maryland, she scored 40 points with an impressive 18/20 field goal percentage. This feat put her in the company of legends like Bill Walton, who achieved similar numbers playing for UCLA in 1973. “Her world, her life, changed forever in that game,” says coach Bill Fennelly.
Audi has scored over 10 points in 63 of the 64 games she has played for the Cyclones, with the only exception being her debut. In her latest game, she reached 36 points and 10 rebounds, leaving opponents and even former NBA stars like Kevin Garnett in awe. Garnett has dubbed her “Lady Shaq,” a nickname that doesn’t sound bad at all. As a force of nature, Audi continues to dominate the court, inspiring fans and silencing critics with her incredible talent and unapologetic confidence.