Audi Crooks hails from a family deeply rooted in athleticism, where her parents once dominated the high school basketball scene.
Embracing the legacy they built, she has emerged as a standout player in her basketball journey.
While her father may not be physically present, she carries his spirit with her every step of the way.
His influence transcends the court, serving as a powerful source of inspiration that fuels her passion and determination.
American college basketball player Audi Crooks is the center for the Iowa State Cyclones in the competitive Big 12 Conference.
Her journey began at Bishop Garrigan High School in Algona, Iowa, where she left an indelible mark as a star player.
Beyond the hardwood, Crooks showcased her versatility by excelling in track and field.
During her sophomore year, she clinched the prestigious Class 1A state titles in both the shot put and discus throw.
Audi Crooks Parents: Legacy of Excellence
Audi Crooks, the daughter of Jimmie and Michelle Crooks, inherits an impressive legacy from her athletic lineage.
Jimmie Crooks, her father, earned his stripes at Fort Dodge Senior High School, enduringly impacting one of the school’s finest basketball teams.
His prowess continued to shine at the collegiate level, where he graced the courts for Mankato State and Southern Nazarene University in Bethany, Oklahoma.
A standout moment in his career came on January 19, 1985, when he delivered a career-high 30 points and four slam dunks against Waterloo Central.
Post-high school, Crooks continued to pursue his passion at Mankato State and Southern Nazarene University in Bethany, Okla., before eventually returning to Fort Dodge.
On the other hand, Michelle Crooks, Audi’s mother, made her mark as one of the all-time leading scorers for the Bishop Garrigan basketball team.
Audi Crooks’ Unbreakable Bond with Father Jimmie
In a tale of familial closeness, Audi Crooks and her father, Jimmie Crooks, maintained a tight bond despite residing in different towns.
Every weekend, her mom dedicated herself to a 45-minute drive, ensuring Crooks could spend quality time with her dad in Fort Dodge.
As she matured, the dynamics shifted, and she stepped up to care for Jimmie when his health faltered due to diabetes.
Jimmie’s journey was marked by adversity, including multiple heart attacks and substantial vision loss.
The daily routine involved dialysis for his kidneys, grappling with the aftermath of a leg amputation, and reliance on a wheelchair.
In the face of these challenges, Audi Crooks became a pillar of support, taking on various responsibilities such as cooking, assisting with day-to-day activities, and accompanying him on grocery runs.
Remarkably, Jimmie reciprocated his daughter’s care by ensuring she stayed committed to her athletic pursuits.
He actively participated in her journey, attending as many games as possible and becoming one of the loudest and proudest supporters on the court.
Despite his health struggles, Jimmie remained steadfast, offering unwavering support at every step.
Audi Crooks’ Tribute to Her Father’s Spirit and Wisdom
On August 14, 2021, the world bid farewell to Jimmie Crooks at Fort Dodge Health and Rehab.
A week later, on Saturday, August 21, 2021, at 11:00 a.m., mourners gathered at St. Olaf Lutheran Church to pay their respects during his funeral services.
In a poignant tribute to her late father, Audi Crooks carries a lasting memorial on her right arm – a tattoo that encapsulates the essence of their bond.
The tattoo, adorned with the word “Pops” in black ink, features a halo, wings, and one of Jimmie’s cherished Bible verses, Proverbs 3:6.
For Crooks, the tattoo is more than just body art; it’s a constant reminder of her father’s spiritual presence, even in his physical absence.
Whether in the classroom, at home, or during warm-ups on the basketball court, her mother, Michelle Cook, observes Audi gently circling her finger around the artwork as if it’s an integral part of her pregame ritual.
Likewise, Crooks keeps her father’s Bible in her room alongside cherished photographs.
Occasionally, she flips through its pages, studying passages he once highlighted, finding solace and connection in the words he held dear.
