Star Center Responds Firmly to Audi Crooks Linked to Valkyries Deal Following internet rumors that Iowa State sensation Audi Crooks had left college to sign a surprise contract with the WNBA’s Golden State Valkyries, the women’s basketball community was in full meltdown mode Monday morning. Fans speculated on social media that Crooks was moving to the Bay Area to work with Kate Martin, leaving Ames behind. But just as the buzz was at its highest, Crooks herself stepped in and put an end to it all.
She posted a laughing emoji after saying bluntly, “False,” on X (formerly Twitter). “I’m committed to this season. Let’s run it back, Cyclone Nation. The rumor swiftly spread throughout sports forums and comment sections, seemingly coming from a fan page with no formal affiliation to the Valkyries or Crooks.
The headline read, “Iowa stunner! Before anyone realized it was completely unconfirmed, the story “Audi Crooks Drops Out of College After Shocking Valkyries Deal” gained a lot of attention. A few fans experienced heartbreak. Some were simply perplexed. One user remarked, “She’s a star, sure, but that’d be a wild leap.” “She has unresolved issues with college basketball.”
In fact, Crooks made waves her freshman year, averaging 17.1 points and 6.8 rebounds per contest and being named to the All-Big 12 team. Though not yet, she was viewed by many as the face of Iowa State’s future and a possible first-round WNBA draft selection. In contrast, the Valkyries have recently become the center of attention due to their flamboyant brand, expanding fan base, and Kate Martin’s quick ascent to popularity. Although intriguing, Crooks’ inclusion in that mix isn’t realistic, at least not yet.
In a subsequent message, Crooks added, “I’m just focused on getting better and helping my team win.” “Be grateful for the love, but don’t trust everything you see.” Lesson learned: although things can get out of control quickly in the realm of viral sports rumors, there are instances when they are just smoke without fire. Fans of Iowa State can relax a bit because Crooks is staying put.
