On a sunny football Saturday last fall, a few young Cyclone entrepreneurs were in for a star-studded surprise: Audi Crooks stopped to say hello, and then purchased their entire inventory of homemade bracelets. Later that day, Crooks and her teammates were spotted handing out the bracelets to other kids at the game.
“Audi is establishing herself as one of the best players in the country,” says head coach Bill Fennelly. “All while leading our team the Iowa State Way.”
The Iowa State Way — the pursuit of excellence in athletics, academics, and character — shines through in Crooks’ approach to life and basketball.
Crooks plays with perfect pace and grace on the court, knowing the right time for a cut, post move, or pass — a savvy that helps her dominate games. The third-year post player routinely puts up record-setting stat lines that leave opponents frustrated and the sports media world in awe of her play.
The pace and grace Crooks employs on the court also extends off it –– she’s never in a rush, often giving of her time to greet fans or show up for her community when it needs it the most.
In early 2025, Crooks launched the Audi Crooks Foundation to better support her community, with a focus on three key areas that shaped her own journey: education, athletics, and music.
When funding for SNAP benefits was paused later that fall, Crooks stepped up through her foundation, launching a new program in Kossuth County that allowed residents to request a care package to be delivered to their homes, no questions asked.
“My mom is a social worker, and hearing from her about how impactful SNAP benefits are opened my eyes to the importance of food security,” Crooks says.
Crooks’ foundation has also supported the Boys & Girls Clubs of Story County and a free food resource program that serves preschoolers through 12th graders in Emmetsburg, Iowa.
“Remembering your roots is important, so pouring back into the community that raised me was a no-brainer,” Crooks says.
Crooks’ hometown coach at Bishop-Garrigan High School often credits her with changing the way they practice to this day because of the joy and passion that she brought each day.
The legacy Crooks hopes to leave in Ames is no different.
“I hope to be remembered as a Cyclone who cared about others –– teammates, coaches, and staff,” Crooks says. “When you love the people who surround you, the losses are easier, and the success is much greater.”
