Greenville, SC—–For the first time in program history, Vanderbilt women’s basketball defeated Tennessee twice in the same season, securing a hard-fought 84-76 victory in the second round of the SEC Tournament. The No. 8 seed Commodores (22-9) advanced to the quarterfinals, where they will face top-seeded South Carolina.
A Strong Start for Vanderbilt
Vanderbilt came out firing, led by Khamil Pierre, who was determined to prove her worth after being left off the All-Conference First Team. Pierre made an immediate impact, scoring six points, grabbing six rebounds, and notching a steal in the first five minutes, including the first four points of the game.
Tennessee’s Second-Quarter Surge
The Lady Vols responded with intensity in the second quarter, opening with a 6-0 run and tightening their defense. Zee Spearman made a statement with a block on Pierre, helping Tennessee seize the lead midway through the period.
However, Vanderbilt answered with tough defense of its own, forcing five turnovers in the final 4:45 of the half. A late 8-1 run allowed the Commodores to reclaim the lead, heading into the break up 39-33.
Blakes Sparks a Game-Changing Third Quarter
Despite Pierre picking up her third foul, Vanderbilt widened its lead in the third quarter with a commanding 13-0 run. Mikayla Blakes took charge during this stretch, scoring nine points and capping the run with a crafty scoop shot to push the Commodores ahead 56-42.
Tennessee fought back, but Vanderbilt remained in control, outscoring the Lady Vols 24-15 in the quarter. Iyana Moore was instrumental, contributing 11 points on 4-of-5 shooting, including a perfect 4-of-4 from beyond the arc. She also grabbed three rebounds, helping the Commodores maintain their momentum.
Closing Out the Historic Victory
Vanderbilt leaned on its three stars to seal the win. Blakes finished with a team-high 24 points, Pierre recorded a dominant double-double with 16 points and 15 rebounds, and Moore shined with 23 points.
Head coach Shea Ralph credited Moore’s leadership as a key factor in the win. “Her experience, her ability to slow the game down a little bit – she just managed the game for us,” Ralph said.
“She was our veteran leader on the floor, talking in every huddle, connected to the bench. She was exactly what you need in March. She is the reason we won today.”
With their second victory over Tennessee this season, the Commodores not only made history but also proved they are a force to be reckoned with in the SEC Tournament.
Their next challenge comes against powerhouse South Carolina, as they look to continue their postseason run.
