In a thrilling NCAA Women’s Tournament clash, the Iowa State Cyclones orchestrated an awe-inspiring comeback against the Maryland Terrapins, and at the heart of this remarkable turnaround was none other than freshman sensation Audi Crooks.
Audi Crooks, The Unstoppable Force
Audi Crooks, a 6’3″ center, etched her name into the annals of college basketball history with a jaw-dropping performance. In her first-ever March Madness game, she erupted for an astonishing 40 points, shooting an otherworldly 90% from the field. But her impact extended beyond scoring; she also corralled 12 rebounds, dominating both ends of the court.
Before every game, Crooks takes a moment to connect with her late father. “I just kind of take a second and ground myself, tap into my spiritual side,” she shared after the win. Her father’s memory serves as her guiding light, and she believes he watches over her from the best seat in the house. That spiritual connection fueled her unstoppable performance.
Audi Crooks in Iowa St. comeback W:
40 PTS
18-20 FG
12 REBUNSTOPPABLE in her first-ever March Madness game 😤 pic.twitter.com/EQ6w1JIiu0
— Bleacher Report (@BleacherReport) March 23, 2024
Audi Crooks Joining Elite Company
Audi Crooks now shares a rare distinction with UCLA legend Bill Walton. They are the only two players in NCAA Tournament history to score 40 or more points on 90% shooting. Walton achieved this feat back in 1973, and it took 40 years for someone to match his remarkable accomplishment. Crooks’ efficiency and scoring prowess are unparalleled.
The Cyclones’ resurgence was nothing short of miraculous. Down by 20 points, they clawed their way back, fueled by Crooks’ heroics. Their second-largest comeback in NCAA Women’s Tournament history left fans in awe. On the same day, No. 11 seed Middle Tennessee also pulled off an impressive comeback, underscoring the tournament’s drama.
As Iowa State advances to the second round, the spotlight remains on Audi Crooks. Her blend of skill, determination, and poise has elevated the Cyclones’ aspirations. Whether facing No. 2 seed Stanford or No. 15 Norfolk State, Crooks and her teammates are ready for the challenge.
The March Madness stage belongs to the freshman phenom. Keep an eye on Audi Crooks—she’s rewriting the script and leaving her mark on the hardwood.
Read more- Washington State Cougars stuns everyone by Getting Its First NCAA Tournament Win in 16 Years
