Vanderbilt Advances to Sweet 16 After Record-Breaking Wins
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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.
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.
More context
Timeline
- 1. 1989-90: Previous Vanderbilt single-season scoring record set at 855 points.
- 2. Regular 2025-26 season: Vanderbilt compiles program-best 28 wins and an 18-0 home mark.
- 3. Saturday (First Round): Vanderbilt defeats High Point 102-61; Blakes scores 30 and breaks school single-season record.
- 4. Monday (Second Round): Vanderbilt beats Illinois 75-57; Blakes posts 25/10/9 and season total reaches 892 points.
- 5. Vanderbilt advances to its first Sweet 16 since 2009 and will face No. 6 Notre Dame.
Why it matters
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.
Sources
JQJO Editorial Desk · Human reviewed · AI assisted. Report a correction.
