Audi Crooks Dominates as Iowa State Topples No. 21 Texas Tech in Lubbock
LUBBOCK, Texas - In a game that showcased both power and poise, Iowa State leaned heavily on its star center and got exactly what it needed - a commanding road win over a ranked opponent. Behind a monster 33-point night from Audi Crooks, the Cyclones took down No. 21 Texas Tech, 84-70, in a statement victory that puts the rest of the Big 12 on notice.
Crooks was simply unstoppable. She notched her 15th career game with 30 or more points, going 13-of-19 from the field and a perfect 7-for-7 from the free-throw line.
Whether it was back-to-the-basket work in the paint or getting to the stripe and converting, Crooks imposed her will all night long. And she didn’t stop at scoring - she pulled down 12 rebounds to complete a dominant double-double.
But this wasn’t a solo act. Jada Williams orchestrated the offense with confidence, finishing with 15 points and dishing out nine assists, often setting the table for Crooks and others.
Sydney Harris also stepped up in a big way, scoring 13 points on an efficient 5-of-9 shooting, including 3-of-4 from deep. Harris also added 12 boards of her own, giving Iowa State two players with double-doubles on the night.
As a team, the Cyclones were locked in offensively. They shot 48.4% from the floor and nearly 47% from three-point range - numbers that reflect both good shot selection and rhythm shooting. On the other end, they forced 12 Texas Tech turnovers, turning defense into offense and keeping the Lady Raiders from ever getting into a consistent groove.
The tone was set early. Iowa State jumped out to a 6-0 lead, with Williams and Crooks getting on the board quickly.
By the end of the first quarter, the Cyclones had built a 26-18 cushion. Texas Tech made a push in the second, but Iowa State held firm, carrying a 40-38 lead into the break and never looking back.
The Cyclones maintained control throughout the second half, stretching the lead to as many as 21 in the fourth quarter and never letting the Lady Raiders seriously threaten down the stretch.
Texas Tech got a balanced scoring effort, led by Sidney Love with 17 points. Snudda Collins and Bailey Maupin each added 16, while former Cyclones Denae Fritz and Jalynn Bristow chipped in eight and six points, respectively. But the Lady Raiders couldn’t match Iowa State’s efficiency or energy on either end of the floor.
With the win, Iowa State moves to 17-5 overall and 5-5 in Big 12 play - a crucial bounce-back after some midseason bumps. And with Crooks playing at this level, the ceiling remains high. For Texas Tech, now 20-3 and 7-3 in the conference, it’s a tough loss at home, but one that could serve as a valuable checkpoint as they gear up for the stretch run.
This was more than just a win for the Cyclones - it was a reminder of what they’re capable of when their stars shine and the supporting cast delivers. Crooks led the way, but this was a full-team effort that could very well shape the trajectory of Iowa State’s season.