Cyclones Poised for Breakout Season in 2024-25

The Iowa State women's basketball team is primed for a big season in 2024-25, according to Big 12 Conference coaches. The Cyclones were picked to finish second in the league's preseason poll, their highest ranking since being tabbed as the conference favorite in 2022-23. With a roster that has undergone a significant transformation and a young squad that exceeded expectations last year, Iowa State is poised to make a statement in the upcoming campaign.

Cyclones Aiming to Soar to New Heights

Rebuilding and Reloading

The 2023-24 season was a year of transition for the Iowa State women's basketball team. After being the preseason favorite in the Big 12, the Cyclones underwent a major roster overhaul, losing several key contributors from the previous campaign. Despite the significant changes, Iowa State managed to defy expectations and put together an impressive season, matching their best start in conference play with a 6-0 record.The Cyclones' ability to adapt and thrive in the face of adversity was a testament to the team's resilience and the coaching staff's ability to mold a young squad into a formidable force. With a large portion of the roster returning, Iowa State will no longer be able to sneak up on their opponents. Instead, they will be the hunted, with high expectations and a target on their backs.

Crooks Leading the Charge

One of the primary reasons for the Cyclones' lofty expectations is the emergence of Audi Crooks. The talented freshman was a unanimous selection to the preseason All-Big 12 Team after a standout debut season. Crooks averaged an impressive 19.2 points and 7.8 rebounds per game, while shooting nearly 58% from the floor, leading all NCAA Division I freshmen.Crooks' dominant performance last year has not gone unnoticed, and the Big 12 coaches have taken notice. Her inclusion on the preseason All-Big 12 Team is a testament to her impact and the respect she has earned from her peers. With Crooks leading the way, the Cyclones have a proven star who can anchor their offense and set the tone for the team's success.

Cyclones Aiming for the Top

The high expectations surrounding the Iowa State women's basketball team are not without merit. The Cyclones' impressive finish to the 2023-24 season, which included a trip to the Big 12 Tournament title game and an at-large bid to the NCAA Tournament, has set the stage for a potential breakout year.With a roster that has gained valuable experience and a proven star in Audi Crooks, the Cyclones are poised to challenge for the top spot in the Big 12. The coaches' poll has them pegged as the second-best team in the conference, just behind the preseason favorite, Kansas State.The Cyclones' ability to build on their success from last season and continue their upward trajectory will be crucial in their quest to reach new heights. The team's combination of talent, experience, and coaching will be put to the test as they look to surpass the lofty expectations and cement their status as one of the top programs in the Big 12.