The Oklahoma State Cowgirls just raised the bar for their women’s basketball program. They’ve secured the commitment of Audi Crooks, the top prospect in the NCAA Transfer Portal.
Crooks, a dominant 6-foot-3 center from Algona, Iowa, has decided to bring her talents to Stillwater for her final year of eligibility. This move, along with other strategic transfers, could set the stage for a historic season for the Cowgirls.
Let’s take a closer look at what Crooks brings and how this changes the landscape for Oklahoma State women’s basketball.
The Impact of Audi Crooks on Oklahoma State
Audi Crooks isn’t just another transfer. Multiple outlets call her the No. 1 player in the NCAA Transfer Portal.
Her stats at Iowa State are eye-popping: 25.8 points and 7.7 rebounds per game, shooting an incredible 64.9% from the floor. She dominates the paint and scores with impressive efficiency.
Why Crooks Chose Oklahoma State
She had plenty of suitors—Maryland, Oklahoma, Notre Dame, Iowa. But in the end, Crooks picked Oklahoma State for her final collegiate season.
On social media, Crooks said she believes in “watering the grass where you stand.” She wants to grow and evolve her game in a new environment, and Stillwater feels like the right place for that.
Stats and Accolades
At Iowa State, Crooks racked up some serious honors:
- Associated Press and USBWA second-team All-American
- Wooden Award All-America Team
- Unanimous First Team All-Big 12 selection for three seasons
She notched 12 double-doubles as a junior and had three games with at least 14 rebounds. This past season, she added 24 blocks and a career-high 1.7 assists per game to her resume.
Coach Hoyt’s Vision for the Team
Oklahoma State head coach Jacie Hoyt sounds absolutely thrilled to add Crooks. Hoyt praised Crooks for her elite size, strength, and soft touch around the rim—qualities that make her an “automatic bucket.”
Hoyt has watched teams struggle to come up with a plan for Crooks. Honestly, most of them just can’t contain her.
A Perfect Fit for Stillwater
Coach Hoyt believes Crooks will quickly become a fan favorite in Stillwater. Her personality and intangibles make her easy to root for.
Hoyt also points out that Crooks is hungry to evolve and expand her game in her senior year. That drive fits perfectly with what the team is aiming for.
Building a Championship-Caliber Team
Crooks isn’t the only big addition for Oklahoma State. The Cowgirls have added several key players through the transfer portal:
- Florida guard Liv McGill – Ranked as the No. 2 transfer by CBS Sports
- Rutgers forward Nene Ndiaye
- Fort Hays State guard Talexa Weeter
- Lindenwood guard Ellie Brueggemann
- Utah guard LA Sneed
They’re rebuilding almost the entire roster. Only Stailee Heard returns from last season, so it’s a fresh start for the Cowgirls.
The Strategic Importance of the Transfer Portal
The transfer portal has become a lifeline for college basketball programs looking to reload fast. For Oklahoma State, it opened the door to top-tier talent like Crooks and McGill.
This kind of opportunity could make all the difference in their championship hopes.
Immediate Impact Players
With Crooks, McGill, and the rest, Oklahoma State suddenly has a roster packed with experienced, talented players. This influx of skill lets the Cowgirls compete at a high level right away.
No need for a long rebuilding phase—they’re aiming to win now.
Long-Term Benefits
Players like Crooks bring more than just numbers. Their experience and winning mentality can help set a new standard for the program.
Younger players get the chance to learn from these veterans, which could create a culture of excellence that sticks around.
Looking Ahead: The 2026-27 Season
With Crooks and these other key transfers, the ceiling for Oklahoma State women’s basketball has never been higher. The Cowgirls have a shot at a deep NCAA tournament run—maybe even a national championship.
Fan Excitement and Support
The buzz around the team is real. Fans can’t wait to see how these new faces mesh with the returners and what kind of spark they’ll bring on the court.
That energy and support from the fan base will matter as the team faces the challenges ahead. It’s going to be an interesting season, to say the least.
Conclusion
The signing of Audi Crooks feels like a real turning point for the Oklahoma State Cowgirls. Her arrival, along with a few other smart moves in the transfer portal, could spark something special this season.
Coach Hoyt and her staff keep working to shape the roster. Honestly, it’s hard not to get a little excited about where Oklahoma State women’s basketball might be headed next.
If you’re curious for more details, check out the full article here.
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