What's Happening?
Audi Crooks, a standout center from Iowa State, has announced her transfer to Oklahoma State. Crooks, who was the nation's second-leading scorer in the 2025-26 season, made the announcement via social media. She averaged 25.8 points per game on 64.9%
shooting, along with 7.7 rebounds, earning her a second-team All-American title. Despite her efforts, Iowa State was eliminated in the first round of the Women's NCAA Tournament by Syracuse. Crooks, a three-time All-Big 12 first-team selection, has one year of eligibility left. Her transfer comes as Oklahoma State sees a significant roster change, with nine players entering the transfer portal. Crooks will be joined by other notable transfers, including Liv McGill from Florida, Ellie Brueggemann from Lindenwood, and Nene Ndiaye from Rutgers.
Why It's Important?
Crooks' transfer to Oklahoma State is significant for both her career and the team's prospects. As a high-scoring player, her presence is expected to enhance Oklahoma State's competitiveness in the upcoming season. The addition of Crooks, along with other key transfers, could potentially offset the loss of players who have entered the transfer portal. This move highlights the dynamic nature of college basketball rosters, where player transfers can significantly alter team dynamics and performance. For Oklahoma State, securing a player of Crooks' caliber could be pivotal in their quest to advance further in the NCAA Tournament, especially after their previous season ended in the second round against UCLA.
What's Next?
With Crooks joining Oklahoma State, the team will likely focus on integrating her into their system and maximizing her impact on the court. Head coach Jacie Hoyt will play a crucial role in this transition, aiming to build a cohesive unit that can capitalize on the talents of its new players. The upcoming season will be a test of how well the team can adapt to these changes and leverage their strengthened roster to achieve better results in the NCAA Tournament. Observers will be keen to see how Crooks' performance influences the team's overall success and whether her presence can lead Oklahoma State to a deeper tournament run.
