News Summary
Vanderbilt’s Mikayla Blakes made history by scoring 53 points in a game against the Florida Gators, setting new NCAA and SEC single-game scoring records. Her performance was a key factor in the Commodores’ 99-86 victory, highlighting Vanderbilt’s impressive season and her rising stardom in college basketball.
Historic Night for Vanderbilt Women’s Basketball in Nashville
Nashville is buzzing after an unforgettable night for the Vanderbilt Commodores women’s basketball team! Freshman sensation Mikayla Blakes stole the spotlight during a thrilling game against the Florida Gators, where she scored a jaw-dropping 53 points, setting a new NCAA single-game freshman scoring record. Yes, you read that right—53 points!
Record-Breaking Performance
Blakes didn’t just break the NCAA record; she also claimed the SEC single-game scoring record, surpassing previous high scores of 51 points set by both Jocelyn Penn from South Carolina and Patricia Roberts from Tennessee. It’s safe to say that this young player has carved her name in the history books of college basketball.
This monumental achievement didn’t just outshine personal records; it also eclipsed Vanderbilt’s previous single-game scoring record held by teammate Khamil Pierre at 42 points. Blakes cleverly scored her 43rd point with only 4:22 left on the clock after netting two technical free throws, igniting cheers from the crowd at Memorial Gymnasium.
How She Did It
Her stunning performance showcased incredible skill with a shooting percentage of 16-for-24 from the field and an impressive 16-for-18 from the free-throw line. Beyond just scoring, she also made her presence felt with three rebounds and two assists, helping the Commodores to a solid victory over Florida, finishing at 99-86.
Unfazed by Records
The remarkable thing about Blakes is her humility. During the game, she reportedly had no idea she was nearing the scoring record. Her focus was solely on securing the team’s win, which she expressed she valued more than any personal accolade.
Recent Successes
Leading up to this incredible moment, Blakes has been on fire, scoring 36 points in a nail-biting match against Georgia, making the game-winning shot against Tennessee, and putting up 24 points against Arkansas. In fact, she is currently the only freshman in NCAA Division I basketball to have multiple 30-point games this season.
Coach Ralph’s Praise
Head coach Shea Ralph is thrilled with Blakes’ performance, comparing her extraordinary talent and determination to that of college basketball icons like Maya Moore and Breanna Stewart! With Blakes standing at just 5-foot-8, she is proving that size doesn’t limit skill or ambition.
Climbing the Ranks
Blakes entered the game averaging 21 points per game, which already ranks her fourth in the SEC. Vanderbilt has been having a fantastic season, winning against tough competitors and recently making a splash in the Associated Press Top 25 poll. For the first time in over a decade, the Commodores now proudly sit at number 23 in the rankings.
A Promising Season Ahead
With an overall record of 17-4 and a strong 4-3 in SEC play, the Commodores are making headlines. Their average score of 85.8 points per game has also kept their competition on their toes, while holding their opponents to an average of 62.9 points. And it seems that Blakes is just getting started! In a recent game against the No. 19 Alabama, she put up another impressive 33 points.
The atmosphere around Nashville is electric as the Commodores, led by the talent of Mikayla Blakes, continue their journey. Keep your eyes on this team; they might just be on the brink of something special!
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Vanderbilt’s Mikayla Blakes Sets New SEC Scoring Record
Vanderbilt University Unveils Huber Center for Basketball
Heartbreaking School Shooting in Nashville Claims One Life
Vanderbilt Commodores Face Tough Loss Against Missouri Tigers
Commodores Suffer Setback Against Bulldogs in Nashville
Vanderbilt Triumphs Over South Carolina in Thrilling Finish
Vanderbilt Triumphs Over South Carolina in Thrilling Match
Ole Miss Rebels Defeat Vanderbilt Commodores
Vanderbilt Women’s Basketball Star Gains Extra Eligibility
Nashville Set for Major Transformations in 2025
Additional Resources
- Tennessean: Mikayla Blakes Sets Scoring Record
- Alabama Crimson Tide: Women’s Basketball Falls to Vanderbilt
- Tide100.9: Vanderbilt Upsets Alabama in Women’s Basketball
- NCAA: Vanderbilt Women’s Basketball Earns Honors
- VU Commodores: Crimson Tide Awaits
- Wikipedia: Vanderbilt Commodores Women’s Basketball
