NASHVILLE, Tenn. — In a thrilling matchup on Sunday, Mikayla Blakes delivered a standout performance by scoring 23 points, capping it off with a crucial tip-in at the final buzzer to help Vanderbilt edge past No. 15 Tennessee with a score of 71-70.

The Commodores (15-4, 2-3 in the Southeastern Conference) entered the final quarter with a solid 54-45 advantage. However, the Lady Volunteers (15-3, 3-3) mounted a fierce comeback, led by Jewel Spear, who hit consecutive three-pointers to level the game at 57. Tennessee gained momentum, taking the lead with a three-point play from Samara Spencer and then adding two free throws from Spear, pushing the score to 64-59 with just 2:55 remaining.

Vanderbilt responded with a key run, aided by a three-pointer and a jumper from Iyana Moore, while Blakes and Khamil Pierre contributed two free throws each in a 10-4 surge, allowing the Commodores to reclaim the lead at 69-68. In the closing seconds, Tennessee briefly regained the upper hand when Ruby Whitehorn scored a layup with just four seconds left on the clock.

This victory marked only the 11th win for Vanderbilt over Tennessee in 90 encounters and was particularly significant as it was their first home win against the Lady Volunteers since January 12, 2014. Blakes, who leads all freshmen this season with 360 points, played a pivotal role in breaking the Commodores’ three-game losing streak. Alongside her, Pierre showcased a strong performance, making 12 of 14 free throws for a total of 21 points alongside eight rebounds, while Moore contributed 17 points and six rebounds.

For Tennessee, Taylasia Cooper was the top scorer with 20 points, while Zee Spearman secured a double-double with 13 points and 11 rebounds. Spencer and Spear both chipped in 10 points, with Spencer also providing six assists. The first quarter ended in a tie at 21, with Cooper and Blakes each tallying 10 points. In the second quarter, Pierre excelled, scoring seven points alone, which helped Vanderbilt establish a comfortable 37-26 halftime lead.

As for upcoming games, Tennessee is set to travel to face No. 7 Texas on Thursday, while Vanderbilt will host Arkansas on the same day.