AUBURN, Ala. — In a historic performance, Mikayla Blakes of Vanderbilt University achieved a remarkable feat on Sunday by scoring 55 points, setting a new Division I women’s freshman record during her team’s 98-88 overtime win against Auburn.
Standing at 5-foot-8, Blakes has been averaging 21.8 points per game this season. In this standout display, she shot 15 of 28 from the field, including two successful three-pointers, alongside an exceptional 23 of 24 from the free-throw line. Blakes broke the previous record of 54 points set by Elena Delle Donne, who reached that figure in a 2010 game while playing for Delaware against James Madison.
Vanderbilt’s coach, Shea Ralph, praised Blakes’ performance but emphasized the importance of teamwork in achieving such a milestone. “While it was another impressive showing from Mikayla, it’s important to recognize that other players contributed significantly,” said Ralph. “Leilani Kapinus had an outstanding game. Aiyana Mitchell made crucial rebounds, and Madison Greene, Jordyn Oliver, and Khamil Pierre each played exceptionally well. I’m proud of the team’s resilience today, and I’m thrilled for them to celebrate this major road victory.”
Notably, Ayoka Lee from Kansas State currently holds the overall NCAA Division I record for most points scored in a single game, with a staggering 61 points set in 2022.
Blakes achieved her 55th point from the free-throw line with just 17 seconds remaining in overtime, although she subsequently missed her next attempt—the only one she missed out of 24. During the overtime period, she scored 11 points, helping Vanderbilt to improve their overall record to 19-7 and 6-6 within the Southeastern Conference. Along with her scoring prowess, Blakes also contributed five assists, five rebounds, and three steals.
The turning point came when Blakes forced the game into overtime by sinking three free throws after being fouled with less than a second left in regulation. Throughout the game, she had 16 points in the first half and showcased her scoring ability with an impressive 28 in the second half. Earlier in the season, she also put up an impressive 53 points in a win against Florida on January 30.
