Audi Crooks

The rumor mills swirled without an announcement that Iowa State women’s basketball star Audi Crooks would be returning next season.

The third-team All-American put that baby to bed, so to speak.

The 6-foot-3 sophomore center and Cyclone standout squashed the potential for any future rumblings to the contrary, making a definitive announcement through her Instagram account on Sunday.

“Dear Cyclone Nation, Thank you to all the coaches and fans that have supported me on this journey,” Crooks wrote. “After much thought and consideration … quit asking! I am right where I want to be! Let’s run it back. #LOYALforevertrue.”

Her unique so-called transfer portal announcement was followed by a second slide that read: “The grass is greener where you water it.”

Iowa State’s star player and one of the country’s top post players, Crooks averaged 23.4 points and 7.5 rebounds this season. The led the Cyclones to a First Four victory over Princeton in the NCAA Tournament before the team was ousted in the first round by Michigan.

Crooks led ISU against the Wolverines with 28 points, seven rebounds and four assists, marking the end of a remarkable sophomore campaign.

Iowa State finished 23-12 overall and 12-6 in the Big 12 Conference, good for seventh in the league, despite being ranked No. 8 by The Associated Press and ninth by the coaches in their respective preseason polls.