
Sun Jan 18 03:20:00 UTC 2026: ### Vanderbilt Women’s Basketball Achieves Historic 18-0 Start
The Story:
The No. 5-ranked Vanderbilt women’s basketball team secured an 89-84 victory at Mississippi State on Thursday night, marking their 18th consecutive win and the best start to a season in school history. This win also represents the longest winning streak at any point in a season for the Commodores and is the longest active winning streak in the SEC. Vanderbilt’s strong performance places them at 5-0 in SEC play, their first such start since the 1992-93 campaign.
Sophomore guard Mikayla Blakes led the charge with a season-high 38 points, supported by senior Justine Pissott’s 12 points and junior Aiyana Mitchell’s 10 points. The Commodores overcame a deficit in the third quarter with a decisive 21-6 run, ultimately holding off a late surge from Mississippi State to secure the victory.
Key Points:
- Vanderbilt achieved a school-record 18-0 start to the 2025-26 season.
- The 18-game winning streak is the longest in school history and the longest active streak in the SEC.
- Mikayla Blakes scored a season-high 38 points.
- Vanderbilt is 5-0 in SEC play, their best start since 1992-93.
- The Commodores will face Michigan in the Coretta Scott King Classic on Monday, January 20th, 2026.
Key Takeaways:
- Vanderbilt’s women’s basketball program is experiencing a resurgence under Coach Shea Ralph.
- Mikayla Blakes is emerging as a star player, leading the team in scoring and assists.
- The team’s success is built on both offensive firepower and defensive resilience, as evidenced by forcing 12 turnovers.
- The upcoming game against Michigan in the Coretta Scott King Classic presents a significant opportunity to showcase their talent on a national stage.