If you follow college basketball, you have likely heard the name Audi Crooks. She is not just another player on the court; she is a force of nature. Standing tall and playing with a heart as big as her hometown, Audi has quickly become a fan favorite. People love her because she plays with incredible power and a smile that lights up the arena. She represents the new era of women’s sports where skill and personality go hand in hand.
Audi first grabbed national attention during her freshman year. She didn’t just play well; she broke records. For many fans, watching Audi Crooks is like watching history in the making. She has a way of making difficult shots look easy. Whether she is posting up against a tough defender or grabbing a crucial rebound, she always finds a way to help her team. This article will take a deep look at her life, her amazing stats, and what makes her so special in the world of basketball.
Audi Crooks Biography: Quick Facts Table
To understand how far she has come, let’s look at some quick facts about her life and career. This table gives you a snapshot of who she is.
| Feature | Details |
| Full Name | Audi Crooks |
| Date of Birth | December 13, 2004 |
| Birthplace | Algona, Iowa, USA |
| Height | 6 feet 3 inches (1.91 m) |
| Position | Center |
| High School | Bishop Garrigan (Algona, IA) |
| College Team | Iowa State (2023–2026), Oklahoma State (Current) |
| Major Awards | 2x AP All-American, 3x All-Big 12 |
| Mother’s Name | Michelle Vitzthum |
| Father’s Name | Jimmie Crooks (Deceased) |
Growing Up in Algona: The Early Years
Audi’s story starts in a small town called Algona, Iowa. Growing up in a small town often means everyone knows your name, and that was certainly true for Audi. She came from a family that loved sports. Her mother, Michelle, was a basketball star herself back in the day. Sadly, Audi lost her father, Jimmie, when she was young. However, his memory stayed with her, often inspiring her to work harder and play with passion.
In Algona, Audi wasn’t just a basketball player. She was an all-around athlete. She excelled in track and field, specifically in the shot put. In fact, she won multiple state titles in track! But basketball was where her soul truly belonged. She spent countless hours in the gym, perfecting her footwork and learning how to use her height to her advantage. By the time she reached high school, people knew she was destined for greatness.
High School Dominance at Bishop Garrigan
During her time at Bishop Garrigan High School, Audi Crooks was simply unstoppable. She led her team to back-to-back state championships. Can you imagine scoring so many points that the other team just can’t keep up? That was a normal Tuesday for Audi. She finished her high school career with 2,734 points and 1,339 rebounds. These numbers are huge! They put her among the best players in Iowa’s long history of high school basketball.
She didn’t just score; she was efficient. Audi broke the state record for the most field goals made in a career. She also holds the record for the most points in a single state tournament game, scoring 42 points in the 2023 finals. Her dominance earned her the title of “Iowa Miss Basketball.” When colleges started calling, it wasn’t a surprise. Every major coach wanted her on their roster, but she chose to stay close to home at Iowa State.
Making a Splash at Iowa State University
When Audi arrived at Iowa State, the “Cyclone” fans were excited. They knew they had a gem. As a freshman, she exceeded all expectations. In her very first NCAA tournament game against Maryland, she scored 40 points! That was a record for a freshman in the tournament. She showed the world that she could compete with the very best players in the country. Her strength and soft touch around the rim made her a nightmare for opposing coaches.
Over the next few seasons, she continued to grow. She became a 2-time All-American and a 3-time All-Big 12 selection. She averaged over 25 points per game in her junior year, leading the conference in scoring. But more than the points, Audi became a leader. She was the player her teammates looked to when the game was on the line. Her time at Iowa State will always be remembered as one of the most exciting eras in the school’s history.
The Big Move: Transferring to Oklahoma State
In April 2026, Audi surprised the basketball world by entering the transfer portal. While she loved her time in Ames, she felt it was time for a new challenge. After much speculation, she announced her commitment to Oklahoma State. This move was huge news! It’s like a famous singer switching record labels. Fans of Oklahoma State are thrilled to have such a powerhouse joining their team.
Transferring is never easy, but Audi is ready for the next chapter. She wants to continue testing her skills against the best. By staying in the Big 12 conference, she will still face many of the teams she knows well, but now she will be wearing orange and black. This move shows her ambition. She isn’t afraid to step out of her comfort zone to reach her goals, including her dream of playing in the WNBA.
The Physical Presence: Height and Strength
One of the first things you notice about Audi Crooks is her height. Standing at 6 feet 3 inches, she is a natural center. But being tall is only part of the story. She uses her strength to “seal” defenders, creating space for easy baskets. Many players her size are slow, but Audi has surprisingly quick feet. This combination of size and agility is what makes her a top-tier prospect.
She also has a very high “basketball IQ.” This means she understands the game deeply. She knows when to pass the ball if she is double-teamed and when to take the shot herself. Her physical presence isn’t just about offense; she is also a great shot-blocker and rebounder. When she is in the paint, the other team has a very hard time getting close to the basket.
Off the Court: NIL Deals and Net Worth
In today’s world of college sports, players can earn money through NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) deals. Audi Crooks has become a very marketable athlete. She has signed deals with big brands like UScellular and the Iowa Pork Producers. Because she is so popular and has a great personality, companies love working with her. Experts estimate her NIL valuation is north of $500,000 as she enters her final college seasons.
While her exact net worth isn’t public, it is clear she is doing very well. This money helps her support her family and prepare for her future. Even with the money and fame, Audi remains humble. She often uses her platform to give back to the community, participating in events for the Make-A-Wish Foundation. She knows that being a star comes with the responsibility of being a good role model.
Style of Play: Why She is Unique
What makes Audi’s game so fun to watch? It’s her “old-school” post game mixed with modern efficiency. Most players today want to shoot three-pointers, but Audi thrives under the basket. She uses a variety of post moves—hooks, drop steps, and power dribbles—to score. She shoots a very high percentage from the field, often over 60%. This means when she gets the ball, it’s usually going in.
She also plays with a lot of emotion. You can see the joy on her face when she makes a big play. She celebrates with her teammates and engages with the crowd. This energy is contagious. It makes her teammates play harder and makes the fans cheer louder. In a sport that can sometimes feel very business-like, Audi reminds us that basketball is supposed to be fun.
Future Outlook: WNBA Dreams
What is next for Audi Crooks? The WNBA is calling. Most experts believe she will be a high pick in the WNBA Draft once she finishes her college career. Her size and scoring ability are exactly what professional teams are looking for. Imagine her playing against the best women in the world every night! It’s a challenge she has been preparing for her entire life.
Before she goes pro, she has one more goal: winning a national championship. Her move to Oklahoma State is a big part of that plan. She wants to lead her new team deep into the NCAA tournament. Whether she wins a title or not, her legacy is already secure. She has inspired thousands of young girls in Iowa and beyond to pick up a basketball and dream big.
The Impact on the Community
Audi is more than just an athlete to the people of Iowa. She is a symbol of hard work and perseverance. Coming from a small town and making it to the big stage is a story that resonates with many. She often goes back to Algona to talk to students and help with basketball camps. She hasn’t forgotten where she came from.
Her impact is also seen in the rising attendance for women’s basketball games. People show up to see her play. She is part of a generation of players who are proving that women’s sports are just as exciting and profitable as men’s. When Audi takes the court, she isn’t just playing for herself; she is playing for every person who ever felt like an underdog.
Conclusion
Audi Crooks is a remarkable person and a legendary athlete. From the small gyms of Algona to the bright lights of the NCAA tournament, she has shown that talent and heart can take you anywhere. Her records speak for themselves, but her character is what truly sets her apart. As she starts her new journey at Oklahoma State, the world will be watching.
We can expect many more highlights and records from her in the coming years. Whether you are a fan of the Cyclones, the Cowgirls, or just a fan of great basketball, you have to respect what Audi has achieved. She is a true All-American in every sense of the word. Let’s continue to cheer her on as she reaches for the stars!
(FAQs)
1. How tall is Audi Crooks?
Audi Crooks stands 6 feet 3 inches tall. Her height and strength make her one of the most dominant centers in college basketball today.
2. Where is Audi Crooks transferring to?
After playing three seasons at Iowa State, Audi Crooks announced in April 2026 that she is transferring to Oklahoma State University to play for the Cowgirls.
3. What was Audi’s highest-scoring game?
In high school, she once scored 49 points. In college, she famously scored 40 points as a freshman in the 2024 NCAA tournament and hit 47 points against Indiana in 2026.
4. Who are Audi Crooks’ parents?
Her mother is Michelle Vitzthum, a former basketball player. Her father, Jimmie Crooks, passed away when she was young, but he remains a major inspiration for her career.
5. Is Audi Crooks going to the WNBA?
Yes, she is widely expected to enter the WNBA Draft after her college career. Most scouts see her as a top professional prospect due to her size and scoring efficiency.
6. What records does Audi Crooks hold?
She holds several Iowa high school records, including career field goals made. In college, she set the record for the most points by a freshman in an NCAA tournament game (40 points).