SPORTS

Vanderbilt Advances to Sweet 16 After Record-Breaking Wins

PUBLISHED Mar 22, 2026, 12:49 AM ET

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Media Bias Meter

Sources: 8

Left 13%

Center 87%

Sources: 8

NASHVILLE, Tenn. Vanderbilt's women's basketball team defeated High Point 102-61 Saturday and Illinois 75-57 Monday at Memorial Gymnasium, as sophomore All-American Mikayla Blakes scored 30 in the opener and 25 in the second-round game, breaking the school's single-season scoring record and advancing the Commodores to the Sweet 16. Vanderbilt, now undefeated at home (18-0), secured its first Sweet 16 berth since 2009 and will face No. 6 Notre Dame next; coach Shea Ralph praised team depth, while opposing coaches adjusted scouting strategies. Blakes' season total reached 892 points by Monday, amplifying national attention and recruiting implications.

By Yusra M. | JQJO News

Timeline of Events

1989-90: Previous Vanderbilt single-season scoring record set at 855 points.
Regular 2025-26 season: Vanderbilt compiles program-best 28 wins and an 18-0 home mark.
Saturday (First Round): Vanderbilt defeats High Point 102-61; Blakes scores 30 and breaks school single-season record.
Monday (Second Round): Vanderbilt beats Illinois 75-57; Blakes posts 25/10/9 and season total reaches 892 points.
Vanderbilt advances to its first Sweet 16 since 2009 and will face No. 6 Notre Dame.

News Intelligence

Vanderbilt's winning streak and Blakes' record-breaking performance are a testament to hard work and team spirit. For any aspiring athletes in your family, this is a great example of what dedication can achieve. Check out the next game to see this inspirational team in action.

Media Bias

Articles Published:: 8
Right Leaning:: 0
Left Leaning:: 1
Neutral:: 7
Distribution:: Left 13%, Center 88%, Right 0%

Who Benefited

Mikayla Blakes, her Vanderbilt teammates, the coaching staff, and the university athletic program benefited through record-breaking performances, increased media attention, and advancement to the Sweet 16, boosting recruiting and fundraising prospects.

Who Impacted

High Point and Illinois saw tournament exits after decisive defeats, while opposing defenses faced scrutiny for failing to contain Vanderbilt’s scoring and rebound advantages.