Audi Crooks realised that the grass on the other side doesn’t always just look greener; sometimes it really is. And the fans couldn’t have agreed more.

Despite being one of the most decorated collegiate athletes in the nation, Crooks had to accept the first-round NCAA exit with the Iowa State Cyclones. This debacle led to her decision to end her Cyclones tenure and enter the transfer portal. The decision came late, but she finally joined her other 8 teammates.

Crooks publicized her decision with an Instagram post on April 2 featuring her letter of gratitude for the Cyclones fraternity. Its final lines read, “I still believe the grass is greener where you water it, and I’ve done that here. It’s why I want you to hear from me directly that I’ve decided to enter the portal and explore what it means to take root again in new ground.”

Despite averaging 25.8 points and 7.7 rebounds for the season, Crooks’ tournament run ended early for 2 straight years. Even her 41-pointer couldn’t have helped a team that just isn’t a national title contender.

Based on the stats and considering Crooks' prowess, an X update from ESPN’s Alexa Philippou called her, "one of the most prominent faces in the sport. She also called her "The biggest name in the portal to date.”

Many fans agreed with Phillipou's statements and took to the comments section to express their views.

How Did Fans View Audi Crooks’ Move?

Quite a few fans opined that Crooks' entry into the transfer portal would prompt several teams to make big-money offers. “Number one player in the portal. So many teams will throw $$$ to bring Audi Crooks in”, one fan wrote. Another added, “Audi was dropping 25+ on 65% and carrying them to the tourney. NIL money calling loud this offseason.”

Meanwhile, some others agreed that given Crooks’ skillset and records, any team that gets her will automatically be at a massive advantage. Her scoring prowess just speaks for itself, and no powerhouse will sleep on that.

“Audi Crooks in the portal instantly changes the whole landscape; elite scoring like that doesn’t stay available for long. Every top program is definitely calling right now”, wrote one. Another fan echoed the stance, writing, “When the nation’s No. 2 scorer enters the market, every powerhouse in women’s college basketball is poised to make a move…”

But then there were fans with an extensive vision who moved past the NIL deals. Instead, they concentrated on debating where Crooks will possibly land for the next season, mentioning the big names.

“If she goes to UConn or SC, it's over”, a user wrote. Another added, “Where does she go? UConn? LSU? South Carolina? Whoever lands her is instantly a Final Four contender. Portal season is undefeated.” “I say go to Notre Dame, she plays a position that won't clash with Hidalgo; it could work for both of them”, added another.

While fans keep up their suggestion game, Crooks’ portal entry is surely a headline on its own.

That being said, where do you think she would land eventually?

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Written by

Deblina Roy

Edited by

Souvik Roy