DEAL DONE: Duke Women’s Basketball Set to Welcome Audi Crooks from Iowa State for 2026 Transfer Portal, Deal Finalized for $65.5 Million…

DEAL DONE: Duke Women’s Basketball Set to Welcome Audi Crooks from Iowa State for 2026 Transfer Portal, Deal Finalized for $65.5 Million…

 

In a groundbreaking move that is set to elevate the already high-caliber Duke Women’s Basketball program, Audi Crooks, one of the most highly sought-after players in college basketball, has officially committed to transferring to Duke University from Iowa State. This transfer, which was finalized earlier today, comes with a record-setting contract worth $65.5 million, signaling the Blue Devils’ intent to further cement their status as one of the elite programs in the nation.

 

The deal was struck after a series of negotiations between two of college basketball’s most influential figures: Duke’s head coach, Kara Lawson, and Iowa State’s Bill Fennelly. Lawson, who has led Duke to multiple successful seasons since taking over as head coach in 2020, was instrumental in securing Crooks for the 2026 class, while Fennelly, known for his ability to develop top-tier talent, agreed to release Crooks from her Iowa State commitment in exchange for the hefty financial package.

 

Crooks, a 6-foot-3 center from West Des Moines, Iowa, has quickly become one of the most dominant players in college basketball. Her performance at Iowa State over the past seasons has caught the attention of scouts and coaches across the nation. Averaging double-doubles in nearly every game she played last season, Crooks is known for her incredible rebounding ability, scoring proficiency, and strong defensive presence. With an already impressive resume, including being named an All-American candidate, she was poised to be one of the most valuable transfers in the upcoming portal window.

 

For Duke, adding Crooks to their roster is a significant coup that strengthens their chances of competing for national championships in the coming years. Coach Kara Lawson, who has been widely praised for her leadership and ability to attract top-tier talent, expressed her excitement about the new addition. “Audi is an incredible player with a skill set that will complement our team perfectly,” Lawson said. “Her work ethic, maturity, and on-court presence will be invaluable to our program as we continue to build a culture of excellence.”

 

The deal, reportedly worth $65.5 million, is believed to be one of the largest financial agreements ever made in women’s college basketball. The contract will not only provide Crooks with substantial financial support, but it also signifies the growing influence of name, image, and likeness (NIL) deals in women’s sports. Crooks, whose social media following has grown exponentially over the past year, is expected to become a major brand ambassador for Duke University and its athletic department.

 

While the specifics of the financial package remain largely confidential, sources close to the situation have confirmed that the agreement includes various NIL opportunities, including sponsorships and marketing partnerships with some of the nation’s most prominent brands. The magnitude of the deal signals a shift in how women’s college basketball players are being valued, particularly as NIL deals continue to reshape the landscape of collegiate athletics.

 

Iowa State’s Coach Bill Fennelly, while acknowledging the loss of one of his top players, expressed support for Crooks’ decision. “We are incredibly proud of Audi and everything she accomplished here at Iowa State. We understand her desire to take the next step in her career, and we wish her nothing but the best at Duke. It’s always hard to lose a player of her caliber, but we are excited about what lies ahead for us as we continue to build our program.”

 

Crooks’ transfer to Duke marks a major milestone for the Blue Devils, who have long been a powerhouse in both men’s and women’s basketball. The addition of such a high-profile player is expected to have a profound impact on the program’s recruiting efforts and its chances for future success. Fans and analysts alike are eagerly anticipating the 2026 season, when Crooks will join a talented roster and look to make an immediate impact on the national stage.

 

With a deal worth $65.5 million in place, Audi Crooks’ decision to transfer to Duke is not only a game-changer for the Blue Devils but also a defining moment for the future of women’s basketball.