Iowa State superstar Audi Crooks had 1,981 points in 88 games heading into Wednesday’s game against Texas Tech. The 6-foot-3 center carried the Cyclones to an 84-70 win behind her 33 points and 12 rebounds. She now has over 2,000 points in just 89 games.
Fans reacted to Crooks’ scoring barrage. One fan wrote:
“And gave up 3K on defense.”
Another fan said:
“Now show defense.”
One more fan continued:
“She’s the woman Shaq.”
Another fan commented:
“2K points in 89 games is absurd efficiency.”
One fan tweeted:
“Gave up 2,300 on defense, but still.”
Audi Crooks has been nearly unstoppable on offense, particularly this season, where she is averaging a Big 12-leading 26.3 points per game. She also leads the conference in field goal percentage (67.5%) and eFG% (67.7). The junior star is the biggest reason Iowa State has a 17-5 record.
While Crooks’ impact on offense has been undeniable, many have criticized her defense. She lacks the mobility to stay in front of speedy centers or forwards. Opposing teams often force her to switch on guards who usually blow by her to score or create opportunities for others.
Cyclones coach Bill Fennelly seems content to compromise something on defense with Crooks because of her dominant offense. This season, she had a five-game stretch where she scored at least 30 points on at least 65% shooting. Iowa State went unbeaten during that span.
When Audi Crooks is on her game, Iowa State has been tough to beat. She might not overcome her defensive shortcomings, but the Cyclones are pinning their hopes on her.
Audi Crooks nearly outscored and outrebounded Texas Tech’s starters by herself
Audi Crooks’ 33 points made up nearly 40% of the Iowa State Cyclones’ scoring against Texas Tech. To put Crooks’ dominance in perspective, she nearly outscored the Lady Raiders’ starting unit, which combined for 35 points.
Bailey Maupin led the home team with 16 points on 4-for-8 shooting, including 2-for-4 from 3-point distance. She was the only starter to hit double-digit scoring. Denae Fritz (8), Gemma Nunez (3), Jalynn Bristow (6) and Sarengbe Sannogo (2) struggled to help Maupin carry the offense.
Audi Crooks’ 12 rebounds were also two fewer than what the Texas Tech starters snared together.
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