The Tennessee Lady Volunteers’ journey in the Southeastern Conference (SEC) Women’s Basketball Tournament came to an unexpected halt on March 6, 2025, as they fell to the Vanderbilt Commodores with a final score of 84-76. This second-round matchup, held at the Bon Secours Wellness Arena in Greenville, South Carolina, marked a historic moment for Vanderbilt, as it was the first time they defeated Tennessee twice in a single season.
Game Overview
Vanderbilt, seeded eighth, showcased a strong performance from the outset. They initiated the game with a 10-2 run, setting the tone early. Despite Tennessee’s efforts to close the gap, the Commodores maintained a lead, ending the first quarter ahead 27-20. The Lady Vols managed to momentarily seize the lead in the second quarter, but Vanderbilt responded with an 8-1 run, entering halftime with a 39-33 advantage.
The third quarter proved pivotal. Tennessee started strong, tying the game at 39 with a 6-0 run. However, Vanderbilt countered with a decisive 13-0 run, extending their lead to 56-42. The Commodores’ dominance continued into the fourth quarter, where they led by as many as 21 points. Despite a late surge from Tennessee, reducing the deficit to seven points with 40 seconds remaining, Vanderbilt’s early lead proved insurmountable.
Key Performances
Vanderbilt’s victory was bolstered by standout performances:
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Mikayla Blakes: The freshman guard led all scorers with 24 points, marking her 19th 20-point game of the season.
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Iyana Moore: She contributed 23 points, showcasing impeccable shooting from beyond the arc with a perfect 4-for-4.
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Khamil Pierre: Delivering a double-double, Pierre amassed 16 points and 15 rebounds, playing a crucial role in Vanderbilt’s dominance on the boards.
For Tennessee:
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Ruby Whitehorn: She led the Lady Vols with 14 points on 6-of-11 shooting.
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Jewel Spear, Talaysia Cooper, and Samara Spencer: Each contributed 13 points, striving to keep Tennessee competitive throughout the game.
Statistical Highlights
While Tennessee had a slight edge in shooting percentage, hitting 47.1% compared to Vanderbilt’s 46.3%, several other factors tilted the game in Vanderbilt’s favor:
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Free Throws: Vanderbilt capitalized at the charity stripe, outscoring Tennessee 16-3.
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Rebounding: The Commodores dominated the glass with a +8 rebounding margin, leading to a significant 21-6 advantage in second-chance points.
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Turnovers: Both teams displayed ball control, with Vanderbilt committing 14 turnovers and Tennessee 13.
Historical Context
This season’s outcomes have been particularly notable in the storied rivalry between Tennessee and Vanderbilt. The Commodores’ victory on March 6, coupled with their earlier 71-70 win on January 19, signifies the first time in program history that Vanderbilt has defeated the Lady Vols twice in a single season.
Implications for Tennessee
The Lady Vols, under the leadership of first-year head coach Kim Caldwell, now hold a 22-9 record. Their early exit from the SEC Tournament raises questions about their seeding in the upcoming NCAA Tournament. Prior to this loss, ESPN’s Charlie Creme projected Tennessee as a 5-seed in the Chapel Hill Regional. However, this defeat may impact their positioning, potentially affecting their chances of hosting early-round games.
The NCAA Selection Show is scheduled for Sunday, March 16, at 8 p.m. ET on ESPN, where Tennessee will learn its postseason fate.
Looking Ahead for Vanderbilt
Vanderbilt’s triumph propels them into the quarterfinals of the SEC Tournament, where they are set to face the top-seeded South Carolina Gamecocks. In their regular-season meeting on February 23, South Carolina secured a commanding 82-54 victory over the Commodores. Vanderbilt will aim to leverage their current momentum to challenge the formidable Gamecocks.
Conclusion
The SEC Women’s Basketball Tournament continues to deliver thrilling matchups and unexpected outcomes. As teams vie for conference supremacy and bolster their NCAA Tournament resumes, fans can anticipate more exciting basketball in the days ahead.
