Women’s transfer portal opens with Audi Crooks headlining strong class set to reshape college basketball

TOI GLOBAL DESK | TOI GLOBAL | Apr 07, 2026, 01:38 IST

Image credit : AP

The women’s college basketball transfer portal opened on April 6, beginning a 15-day window that is already reshaping team rosters across the country. Audi Crooks headlines the portal after a dominant season with the Iowa State Cyclones women's basketball, averaging 25.8 points per game. Programs are moving quickly, with coaches like Cori Close emphasizing aggressive recruitment strategies. Other top names include Talaysia Cooper from Tennessee Lady Volunteers basketball and Jada Williams, also from Iowa State, known for her playmaking ability. Players like Addy Brown, Kiyomi McMiller and Madison St. Rose add depth and versatility to the available talent pool. Despite the shorter timeline, the portal continues to play a major role in shaping the competitive balance of the sport, with teams adapting quickly to secure top players and rebuild their rosters.

Iowa State center Audi Crooks (55) reacts during an NCAA college basketball game against Iowa, Wednesday, Dec. 10, 2025, in Ames, Iowa. (Nick Rohlman/The Gazette via AP)

The women’s college basketball transfer portal officially opened on April 6, starting a short 15-day window where players can enter and explore new teams. Even with the shorter time frame, top players across the country have already made their move, with Audi Crooks leading the list as the biggest name available.

Audi Crooks had a memorable season with the the Iowa State Cyclones women's basketball team. She finished with 25.8 points per game and became the top scorer in the country. Not only did she make baskets but also added strong numbers in rebounds and assists, making her the most complete player in the portal right now.

"We're going to be very proactive in the transfer portal. We're probably going to sign five transfers."said UCLA’s head coach Cori Close, who is set to lose six of her senior players to the WNBA this season.

Several other players who are entering the transfer are also expected to make a big impact wherever they go. Talaysia Cooper from Tennessee Lady Volunteers basketball has been a steady scorer and strong shooter. Jada Williams, another Iowa State player, stood out with her passing and playmaking, finishing among the top in assists this season.

Addy Brown brings an all-around game with scoring, rebounding, and shooting ability, while Kiyomi McMiller continues to be one of the best young scorers after another strong season.

Guards like Madison St. Rose and Lanie Grant add depth to the list, both known for consistent performances. Taryn Barbot also caught attention after leading her team to the tournament and putting up big scoring games.

Further down the list, players like Achol Akot and Filipa Barros have shown strong efficiency and all-around stats, making them valuable options for teams looking to rebuild.

Despite the changes in timing, the portal continues to shape the sport in a big way. Top players are moving more freely, and teams are adjusting quickly to stay competitive.

With so much talent available, the next few weeks could change the balance of power across women’s college basketball.

Women’s transfer portal opens with Audi Crooks headlining strong class set to reshape college basketball

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