Audi 2000: Iowa State’s Human Cheat Code
If you’re a basketball rim in the Big 12, we have some bad news: Audi Crooks is officially "back," and she’s brought a 2,000-point milestone and a path of destruction with her.
On Wednesday night, the Iowa State junior—and former Bishop Garrigan legend—decided that the No. 21 Texas Tech Red Raiders were less of a "top-ranked opponent" and more of a "personal practice squad." Crooks dropped 33 points, grabbed 12 rebounds, and casually strolled past the 2,000-point career mark in an 84-70 road win.
At this point, calling her a "scoring threat" is like calling a hurricane a "breeze."
A Night of Milestones (And Coach Fennelly’s Humility)
The Cyclones didn't just win; they essentially rewrote the conference history books in a single night.
Bill Fennelly became the all-time winningest coach in Big 12 history with 297 victories, passing current LSU coach Kim Mulkey. In true "Coach" fashion, Fennelly downplayed it, calling it a "longevity record." Sure, Bill, and the Great Wall of China is just a "construction project."
Audi Crooks became only the fourth Cyclone to ever hit 2k, joining the Mount Rushmore of Ames: Angie Welle, Bridget Carleton, and Ashley Joens.
Jada Williams (the Arizona transfer) eclipsed the 1,000-point mark.
Sydney Harris decided to join the party with her first career double-double.
The locker room after the game must have been less of a post-game huddle and more of a graduation ceremony with all those career highlights.
The "Audi" Performance Review
Audi didn't just hit the milestone; she did it with the kind of efficiency that makes accountants weep. She went 13-of-19 from the field and a perfect 7-of-7 at the free-throw line.
“All I’ve got to say is, ‘I’m back,’” Crooks told the Cyclone Radio Network.
Considering she’s reached double figures in 88 straight games, some might argue she never actually left. But if this version—the one scoring 14 points in the first quarter—is what she calls "being back," the rest of the conference might want to consider switching to a different sport. Pickleball is nice this time of year.
What’s Next for the "Iowa-Grown" Cyclones?
With the win, Iowa State moves to 17-5 (5-5 in the Big 12). They’re currently riding a wave of momentum that could carry them straight into a deep March run.
While Audi is chasing Ashley Joens’ school record of 3,060 points (and maybe even eyeing Caitlin Clark’s NCAA mountain peak further down the road), her immediate focus is likely on UCF this Saturday.
For the Knights, the scouting report is simple: Try to stop the 6-3 junior from Algona.
The Reality: Good luck. You’re going to need it.
