Vanderbilt's women's basketball team showcased a commanding performance in the NCAA Tournament's opening round, defeating High Point with an impressive 102-61 score. The victory was highlighted by exceptional individual achievements, as Mikayla Blakes established a new single-season scoring record for the Commodores, and her teammate Sacha Washington matched a long-standing March Madness rebounding record. This dominant display propels Vanderbilt into the next stage of the tournament, where they will face a formidable opponent.
During the March 21st matchup at Memorial Gymnasium, Mikayla Blakes delivered an outstanding offensive effort, contributing 30 points to her team's total. This performance elevated her season's scoring aggregate to an remarkable 867 points for the 2025-26 campaign, surpassing Wendy Scholtens' previous record of 855 points set in the 1989-90 season. Blakes' efficiency was notable, as she only missed five shots throughout the game, demonstrating her precision and impact on the court.
Complementing Blakes' scoring prowess, Sacha Washington, a 6-foot-2 senior forward, exhibited a dominant presence under the basket, grabbing an incredible 17 rebounds. This remarkable feat tied the program's March Madness single-game rebounding record, initially established in 1987 by Karen Booker against James Madison. Washington's contribution was crucial in limiting High Point's second-chance opportunities and maintaining Vanderbilt's control of the game. Her tenacity on the boards was particularly appreciated by Blakes, who acknowledged Washington's dedication to rebounding as a key factor in the team's success.
Washington's outstanding performance holds particular significance given her journey. She missed the entire 2024-25 season due to a blood clot in her right calf. Her return to the court this season has been driven by a strong desire to finish her collegiate career on a high note, and her record-tying achievement underscores her resilience and dedication. Washington expressed immense gratitude for the opportunity to play again, emphasizing her thankfulness for her health and the chance to contribute to the team's success after a period of uncertainty. She has been a consistent force for Vanderbilt, leading the team in rebounding with an average of 7.6 boards per game this season.
Vanderbilt coach Shea Ralph lauded Washington's commitment and perseverance, especially in an era where player transfers are common. Ralph commended Washington for fighting through adversity and demonstrating the value of loyalty and sustained effort within a program. As the only remaining player from Ralph's inaugural team, Washington embodies a commitment to the team that the coach deeply respects. Her decision to remain with Vanderbilt and contribute to its ongoing success serves as a testament to her character and dedication.
With this impressive victory, the second-seeded Commodores, now holding a 28-5 record, are set to advance to the second round of the NCAA Tournament. They will face No. 7 seed Illinois, who secured a 66-57 win over Colorado. The upcoming match is scheduled for March 23rd, promising another exciting chapter in Vanderbilt's tournament run.
In summary, Vanderbilt's women's basketball team achieved a significant victory in the first round of the NCAA Tournament, marked by record-breaking individual performances. Mikayla Blakes' new scoring record and Sacha Washington's historic rebounding effort were central to their dominant win. This success is not only a testament to their athletic talent but also highlights the perseverance and teamwork within the Commodores' squad. The team now looks ahead to their next challenge, fueled by these remarkable achievements and the strong leadership of their coach.