Why Oklahoma State is the most intriguing team in women's college basketball

Oklahoma State has a promising collection of players

Everything starts with Audi Crooks, one of the most dominant post players in college basketball.

Crooks established herself as a superstar at Iowa State by overwhelming opponents with her combination of strength, footwork and touch around the basket. She isn't just a great scorer. She changes the way defenses have to play. Double-teaming her opens opportunities for everyone else, while leaving her in single coverage is a recipe for foul trouble and easy points.

Every championship contender needs a player who can take over a game in March. Oklahoma State now has one. 

The addition of Liv McGill makes the Cowgirls even more dangerous. McGill burst onto the national scene as one of the country's most dynamic young guards. She can create her own shot, attack the rim, knock down perimeter jumpers and facilitate for teammates. More importantly, she gives Oklahoma State a true playmaker capable of controlling the pace of a game.

Then there's Stailee Heard, who returns after emerging as one of the Big 12's best all-around players. Heard's versatility is what makes this roster so difficult to defend. She can score inside and out, rebound, defend multiple positions and impact the game without needing the ball in her hands every possession.

On paper, it's one of the best trios in the country. That's why expectations have changed. Oklahoma State can win the Big 12. It could also earn a top-four seed and possibly make the Elite Eight.

But talent alone has never guaranteed success. The biggest question surrounding Oklahoma State isn't whether the Cowgirls have enough star power. It's whether all the pieces will fit together quickly enough.

Crooks was the focal point of Iowa State's offense. McGill was asked to do everything at Florida. Heard once led the Cowgirls in scoring. Each has proved they can be the centerpiece of a team.

Now they'll have to learn when to lead and when to complement one another. That process won't happen overnight.

Winning teams are built on chemistry, trust and clearly defined roles. Oklahoma State will be tested. Baylor, TCU and West Virginia will each have arguments to be top 25 teams. Arizona State just had a surprise year. Colorado will be a tough out.

If the chemistry comes together, the ceiling is as high as any team in women's college basketball.