The Iowa State women's basketball program is facing a major roster overhaul, with star center Audi Crooks becoming the tenth Cyclone to enter the transfer portal this offseason. Crooks, a dominant force in the paint and a fan favorite, announced her decision on social media Thursday.
In her heartfelt message, Crooks expressed gratitude to the Iowa State community, stating, "Thank you all for embracing me and showing up to Hilton every single game day." She leaves a significant legacy, having scored 2,256 points over 95 games, including a 37-point performance in her final outing—a First Round NCAA tournament loss to Syracuse.
Her departure marks a pivotal moment for the program. Crooks joins a lengthy list of teammates seeking new opportunities, including key players like Jada Williams, Addy Brown, and Kenzie Hare. This exodus creates a massive challenge for the coaching staff to rebuild the roster for the 2026-27 season.
Amidst the departures, there is a glimmer of stability. Des Moines native Arianna Jackson has confirmed her return, and Evangelia Paulk has indicated she plans to come back. Their decisions will be crucial as Iowa State navigates this period of significant transition in the competitive landscape of women's college basketball.
