Former Iowa Preps Help USA Win AmeriCup Gold Medal

Team USA claimed the 2025 FIBA Women’s AmeriCup title, beating Brazil 92–84 in Santiago, Chile. The win earned the U.S. its fifth AmeriCup gold and secured a berth at the 2026 FIBA Women’s World Cup. What makes this victory especially memorable is the standout contributions from two players rooted in Iowa high school basketball: Hannah Stuelke of Cedar Rapids and Audi Crooks of Bishop Garrigan in Algona. From bustling midsize Iowa towns to the global stage, these former Iowa preps proved their talent and heart once again—demonstrating how small-town roots can fuel big-time dreams.

Former Iowa Preps AmeriCup Gold: The Journey to the Podium

Both Stuelke and Crooks earned their spots after standout performances at the national training camp in Colorado Springs. They joined a roster blending college players and emerging talent under veteran coach Kara Lawson, who emphasized speed, skill, and versatility.

Audi Crooks, a 6-foot-5 forward, entered camp as a national scorer—she led the Big 12 with 23.4 points per game and a 61% field-goal mark. Known for her sharp shooting, Crooks consistently stretched defenses and added a presence in the paint that opponents struggled to contain.

Hannah Stuelke, a guard-forward hybrid, brought all-around skills to the table. With 11.2 rebounds per game in her senior college season and calming leadership, Stuelke impressed with her versatility—handling point-guard duties or stepping into the post as needed. She became a roster essential for her poise and adaptability.

Important Moments in the AmeriCup Final

Facing Brazil, a contested 92–84 victory came down to key plays from both Iowa natives:

• Crooks opened scoring, knocking down back-to-back mid-range jumpers to set the tone and give the U.S. an immediate lead.
• In the second quarter, Stuelke capped off a fast break with a powerful drive, sparking a 10–2 run and swinging momentum.
• After Brazil cut the deficit in the fourth, Crooks calmly sank two clutch free throws, ensuring the U.S. pulled ahead for good.
• Stuelke added gritty hustle with five vital rebounds in the game’s final minutes, helping the defense shut down Brazilian post players.

Together, Crooks and Stuelke scored 22 points and grabbed 14 boards, matching American veterans step-for-step.

Team USA’s Path to Gold

USA claimed the title with a 5–0 record in the tournament:

These results spotlighted how both players shaped USA’s path, with Crooks setting the tone in the backcourt and Stuelke anchoring defense and transition play.

Growing Up in Iowa: Roots of Resilience

Audi Crooks and Hannah Stuelke both grew up in towns where basketball reigns supreme. Crooks once said, “I played in empty gyms until folks showed up…I learned to keep grinding even when no one was watching.” Stuelke added, “Iowa tournaments teach you heart. That iced us over when games got tough.”

Their Midwestern roots shaped their work ethic—mentally and physically preparing them for pressure, competition, and travels that come at international events.

What This Gold Medal Means for Future Tournaments

With this win, Team USA qualifies for the 2026 FIBA Women’s World Cup in Berlin, where Olympic berths will be awarded. More importantly, the success of Crooks and Stuelke highlights a shift in USA Basketball’s approach: prioritizing development over experience, offering opportunities to top college talent. This strategy bolsters Team USA’s depth and healthy athlete pipeline.

Iowa’s Spotlight: School and Community Celebrations

News of the medal sparked celebrations across Iowa:

• Bishop Garrigan High School posted photos of Crooks in USA colors on its gym marquee.
• Cedar Rapids High held a rally for Stuelke featuring highlights and a silent crowd tribute.
• Youth camps, seeing their champs, reported immediate enrollment spikes—students hoping to follow in Crooks’ and Stuelke’s footsteps.

These celebrations show how their success ripples back, inspiring the next wave of Hawkeyes.

College Coaches Reflect on Their Growth

• Iowa State coach Bill Fennelly said Crooks “stepped into the lion’s den and owned it—she never blinked.”
• Hawkeye coach Lisa Bluder praised Stuelke’s team-first mentality: “She exemplifies what we value: effort, acceptance, and heart.”

Their collegiate leadership translated to international composure—and proved coaches right.

Final Thoughts on Former Iowa Preps AmeriCup Gold

This AmeriCup title is more than hardware—it’s a narrative reshaping for USA Basketball, introducing two new icons: Audi Crooks and Hannah Stuelke. Their story—from Iowa school gyms to global stages—is a powerful reminder that heart, development, and community can propel athletes to greatness. As FIBA’s global elite convene next in 2026, Crooks and Stuelke could well lead Team USA’s charge yet again.

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