Audi Crooks, a rising star in women’s college basketball, has been playing impressive performances for the Iowa State Cyclones. Recently, she made headlines with a historic 40-point game against Maryland, showcasing her exceptional skill and athleticism.
As we explore her background, it becomes clear that her family has played a pivotal role in shaping her basketball journey. Crooks’ success is not just a testament to her talent but also the robust support and legacy she inherited from her family.
Meet Audi Crooks’ Parents
Audi Crooks grew up with parents Jimmie Crooks and Michelle Vitzthum, who excelled as basketball players during their teenage years. Jimmie demonstrated his basketball talent as a Fort Dodge Senior High School athlete and later moved on to play at Mankato State University, followed by Southern Nazarene University.
During his senior season, Crooks dominated the court through his performance, averaging 14.5 points per game and receiving first-team all-Big 8 recognition.
Michelle established herself as the top scorer in history for the Bishop Garrigan basketball team based in Algona, Iowa. The athletes’ sporting skills, along with their desperation to succeed, created positive effects, which significantly helped Audi grow in his role.
Audi has often spoken about the significant role her parents played in her early basketball development. She recalls playing against her mother in their driveway, which helped hone her skills and give her a competitive edge.
Despite Jimmie’s passing in August 2021, Audi continues to draw inspiration from him before games and honors his legacy by wearing the No. 55 jersey, a number that both her parents wore during their playing days.
The Crooks Family Basketball Connection
The Crooks family has a deep-seated connection to basketball, with both parents having excelled in the sport. Jimmie’s achievements on the court were matched by his dedication to his family ensuring that his children were exposed to sports from an early age.
Michelle’s competitive nature, as evidenced by her high school basketball career, has been passed down to Audi, who credits her mother for instilling a strong competitive edge.
Audi’s nine siblings have continued to support her athletic activities. The family embraces hard work and dedication because these core values helped Audi achieve success.
Despite Jimmie’s health issues and subsequent death, Audi continues to follow her college basketball ambitions since her family has never stopped supporting her athletic aspirations. Through their support, her family has pushed her to carry on the family legacy by doing her best on the basketball court.
Family Life Beyond Basketball
Beyond basketball, Audi’s family life is marked by a strong sense of unity and support. Her mother, Michelle continues to be a source of encouragement attending games and providing emotional support.
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Audi’s siblings, though not all directly involved in sports, contribute to a family dynamic that emphasizes resilience and perseverance. The family also shares a love for music, with Audi having learned to play the drums from her father and occasionally playing them at Hilton Coliseum.
As Audi navigates her growing fame and NIL deals, her family remains grounded,d focusing on the values that have brought them together. They handle the pressures of her success by maintaining a close-knit relationship and emphasizing the importance of staying true to their roots.
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