Vanderbilt Commodores Triumph Over Texas
In a standout performance, Mikayla Blakes, the NCAA’s leading scorer, lit up the court with 34 points, leading the No. 5 ranked Vanderbilt Commodores to an impressive 86-70 victory over No. 4 Texas in Nashville on Thursday night. This victory marks the Commodores’ third consecutive win against a ranked opponent, improving their record to 24-2 overall and 10-2 in the Southeastern Conference.
Blakes’ Scoring Streak
Blakes has been on a scoring tear, raising her average to 26.2 points per game, and achieving 30 or more points in four straight contests, and nine times this season. Aubrey Galvan contributed significantly with 18 points and 8 rebounds, helping the Commodores pull away after an early setback.
Game Highlights
Despite trailing 7-4 at the start, Vanderbilt quickly gained momentum, embarking on a dominant 14-0 scoring spree that put them ahead 27-15 by the end of the first quarter. Their shooting was phenomenal, going 9-of-12 in the opening frame, including 4-of-5 from beyond the arc. By halftime, they held a firm lead of 47-30, thanks to Blakes’ and Galvan’s combined efforts.
As the game progressed, Vanderbilt extended their lead to as much as 26 points in the third quarter. However, Texas, with Madison Booker leading their scoring with 20 points and 8 rebounds, attempted a late rally, bringing the deficit down to 11 in the final moments of the game. Meanwhile, Breya Cunningham chipped in with 14 points for the Longhorns before fouling out.
Looking Ahead
With this victory, Vanderbilt continues its impressive season, marking 14 consecutive home wins—an all-time record for the university. Next, the Commodores will head to Georgia, while Texas prepares for a matchup against No. 22 Tennessee on Sunday.
