Candace Parker Suggests Notre Dame as Ideal Transfer Destination for Audi Crooks

WNBA legend Candace Parker believes the Fighting Irish would be a great fit for the former Iowa State star.

Apr. 8, 2026 at 5:57pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A cubist, geometric painting depicting the overlapping movements and perspectives of a college basketball game, with vibrant navy, green, and gold colors representing the dynamic action on the court.Candace Parker's recommendation of Notre Dame as a transfer destination for Audi Crooks highlights the potential synergy between the former Iowa State star and Fighting Irish point guard Hannah Hidalgo.Notre Dame Today

WNBA icon Candace Parker has suggested that Notre Dame would be an ideal transfer destination for former Iowa State star Audi Crooks, who recently announced plans to leave the Cyclones. Parker believes Crooks' offensive strengths would complement Notre Dame's star point guard Hannah Hidalgo, while Hidalgo's defensive abilities could help cover up some of Crooks' weaknesses on that end of the floor.

Why it matters

Crooks' transfer is one of the most intriguing storylines of the upcoming college basketball offseason, as she is a dominant offensive talent but has some limitations that will require the right system and supporting cast. Parker's endorsement of Notre Dame as a potential landing spot shines a spotlight on how Crooks could thrive in South Bend.

The details

Crooks was a standout at Iowa State, but her need to have the ball in her hands a lot on offense, combined with her defensive deficiencies, could make her a tricky fit at some programs. However, Parker believes Notre Dame and coach Niele Ivey would be able to maximize Crooks' strengths while minimizing her weaknesses. With star point guard Hannah Hidalgo able to handle much of the playmaking duties, Crooks could focus on scoring in the paint, which would take pressure off Hidalgo late in games.

  • Crooks announced her plans to transfer from Iowa State after the 2025-26 season.

The players

Candace Parker

A WNBA legend and current analyst who provided her opinion on where Crooks should transfer.

Audi Crooks

The former Iowa State star who is entering the transfer portal after the 2025-26 season.

Hannah Hidalgo

The star point guard for the Notre Dame Fighting Irish, who Parker believes could complement Crooks' game well.

Niele Ivey

The head coach of the Notre Dame Fighting Irish, who Parker thinks would be able to properly utilize Crooks' skillset.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“I'd like to see her at Notre Dame.”

— Candace Parker, WNBA Legend and Analyst

“Okay! That's really not bad. That's really not bad.”

— Aliyah Boston, WNBA Star

What’s next

Crooks will have to officially enter the transfer portal and then decide on her next destination, with Notre Dame emerging as a potential top option thanks to Candace Parker's endorsement.

The takeaway

Candace Parker's recommendation of Notre Dame as a transfer destination for Audi Crooks highlights how the Fighting Irish could be an ideal fit, with star point guard Hannah Hidalgo's playmaking and defense potentially complementing Crooks' dominant offensive skills.