Audi Crooks has quietly become one of the most dominant players in college basketball — male or female — yet a growing chorus of fans and commentators are asking why her historic performances are not receiving the same national attention once afforded to stars like Caitlin Clark.
The Iowa State sophomore has delivered elite production this season, averaging close to 30 points per game in just 27 minutes, including multiple 40-point performances that place her among the most prolific scorers in Big 12 history at just 19 years old.
Despite those numbers, Crooks’ name remains largely absent from mainstream sports headlines and prime-time studio discussions.
The silence has triggered sharp criticism of U.S. sports media, particularly ESPN, with commentators accusing outlets of selective coverage shaped by marketability rather than performance.
“Where is the coverage? Where is the love for the best college basketball player in the country right now?” one widely shared sports commentary asked. “When Caitlin Clark dropped 40, it was wall-to-wall coverage. Now it’s silence.”
Performance Over Perception
Supporters argue that Crooks’ dominance challenges long-standing stereotypes in women’s basketball — particularly around body type and image.
Unlike many highly marketed stars, Crooks does not fit what critics describe as the “traditional package” often elevated by broadcasters. Yet on the court, her impact is undeniable.
Analysts have compared her playing style to NBA MVP Nikola Jokić — a player once doubted for his physique but celebrated for his efficiency, vision, and basketball IQ.
“We hyped Jokic without hesitation,” one commentator noted. “Why not Audi Crooks?”
Team Reliance Highlights Her Value
A recent 72–70 loss to Baylor further illustrated Crooks’ importance to Iowa State. According to a January 5, 2026, report by High Post Hoops, Crooks and teammate Jada Williams accounted for 54 of the Cyclones’ 70 points, while the rest of the team struggled to contribute offensively.
Baylor’s defensive strategy focused on limiting Crooks in the second half, daring other players to step up — a tactic that ultimately proved effective. Still, the narrow loss underscored how much Iowa State relies on Crooks’ production and presence.
Head coach Bill Fennelly described the defeat as a learning moment but acknowledged the challenge ahead as teams adjust to stopping his star center.
Bigger Than One Player
The debate around Crooks has expanded beyond wins and losses into a broader conversation about visibility, race, body image, and equity in women’s sports coverage.
Critics argue that even as women’s basketball grows globally, media narratives still elevate certain stars while overlooking others whose dominance is less “market-friendly.”
Some observers warn that waiting until the NCAA tournament or Final Four to spotlight Crooks would repeat a familiar pattern: celebrating excellence only after it becomes impossible to ignore.
“If she could enter the draft today, she’d be a No. 1 pick,” one commentator argued. “Why wait?”
As the season continues, pressure is mounting on major sports networks to widen their lens and recognize greatness wherever it appears.
