Baylor’s Blueprint for Slowing Down Audi Crooks

The recent clash between No. 22 Baylor and No. 10 Iowa State was not just another game; it was a masterclass in defensive strategy that may have unveiled a new approach to containing one of college basketball’s brightest stars, Audi Crooks. With Baylor securing a stunning 72-70 upset victory, it’s clear that their game plan could serve as a template for others looking to tame the Cyclones’ dominant center.

Understanding the Challenge

Entering the match, Crooks was a force to be reckoned with, averaging an astonishing 29.4 points per game on an unprecedented shooting percentage of 72.5%. Such efficiency is almost unheard of in NCAA Division I women’s basketball. Here’s a quick rundown of her record:

• Three 40-point games this season, including a career-high of 47 points against Indiana.
• No games shooting worse than 57.1% from the field.

The Game Plan

Baylor’s coach, Nicki Collen, entered the game with a humorous acknowledgment of the challenge they faced. However, it was the tactical adjustments made throughout the game that truly set the stage for their success. Early on, Crooks was allowed to operate in one-on-one situations, leading to her scoring the Cyclones’ first nine points. However, as the game progressed, Baylor began to tighten its grip on her.

Defensive Adjustments

Baylor’s strategy evolved significantly, particularly in the fourth quarter, where they took decisive steps to neutralize Crooks. Here’s how they executed their plan:

• Two defenders were assigned to Crooks, effectively sandwiching her in the post and limiting her touches.
• They chose to ignore Jada Williams, Iowa State’s playmaker, allowing her to shoot rather than risk giving Crooks opportunities.
• Defensive positioning was key: Crooks noted that defenders were effectively blocking passing lanes, making it nearly impossible for her teammates to get her the ball.

The Outcome

As a result of these strategic choices, Crooks managed only four points in the second half, including a scoreless fourth quarter. The Cyclones’ offensive output dwindled significantly, with only 14 points in that final quarter. This stark contrast in performance highlights the effectiveness of Baylor’s defensive game plan.

Looking Ahead

The question now looms: was this a one-off victory for Baylor, or will other teams adopt a similar strategy? If they do, how will Iowa State adjust? Coach Bill Fennelly acknowledged the difficulty of competing against such a well-executed defensive scheme, stating, “It’s hard to beat a really good team playing two against five.”

With upcoming games, including a matchup against Cincinnati, it will be intriguing to see how Iowa State adapts to the challenges posed by opposing defenses now that the blueprint has been laid out.

For those interested in the original details of this exciting matchup, I encourage you to read the full article at the source: CBS Sports.