LSU’s “Ugly” Win and Audi Crooks’ Dominance
LSU secured a less-than-impressive victory according to their head coach Kim Mulkey, who described it as “selfish” and “ugly.” The defending champion Tigers managed to scrape past Rice with a 70-60 win but were heavily criticized for their performance, marked by a season-high 24 turnovers. Despite the lackluster showing, LSU’s main focus was on advancing to the next round of the tournament.
In a stark contrast, Audi Crooks from Iowa State delivered an awe-inspiring performance, scoring 40 points in a remarkable comeback against Maryland. This masterful display of skill and dominance not only propelled her team to victory but also etched her name in NCAA tournament history. Crooks’ 40-point effort marked the second-highest total by a player in an NCAA tournament debut, solidifying her place as a standout athlete in the competition.
Crooks’ Historic Achievement
Crooks’ exceptional performance stood out even more as she achieved another milestone by becoming the first player in the tournament’s history to score 40 points with a staggering 90% shooting accuracy. Her impeccable 18-for-20 shooting from the field showcased her prowess and precision, placing her in a league of her own within the NCAA tournament landscape.
Iowa State and LSU’s Prospects
Following their respective performances, Iowa State and LSU are gearing up for challenging matchups in the next round. While Iowa State’s triumph, spearheaded by Crooks, has raised hopes for an extended run in the tournament, LSU is grappling with the need to rectify their subpar display to stand a chance against Middle Tennessee.
As the tournament progresses, all eyes will undoubtedly be on Audi Crooks, a rising star in women’s college basketball, as she looks to maintain her outstanding form and lead Iowa State to further success.
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