What's Happening?
The Ole Miss women's basketball team is set to face off against the Vanderbilt Commodores in a neutral site game in Birmingham, Alabama. The game is scheduled for Friday, January 30, with a tipoff at 2
p.m. CT, and will be streamed on SEC Network+. Ole Miss, ranked No. 17, holds a record of 17-4 overall and 4-2 in the SEC. The team is led by Head Coach Yolett McPhee-McCuin, who is in her eighth season with the Rebels. Vanderbilt, ranked No. 5, boasts a 20-1 record and is led by Head Coach Shea Ralph. The Commodores have been a formidable opponent, with standout sophomore Mikayla Blakes leading the SEC in scoring. The game marks the 58th meeting between the two teams, with Vanderbilt leading the series 35-22. However, Ole Miss is on a five-game winning streak against the Commodores, including two victories last season.
Why It's Important?
This matchup is significant as it pits two top-ranked SEC teams against each other, with both teams having strong records this season. For Ole Miss, a victory would extend their winning streak against Vanderbilt and solidify their standing in the SEC. The game also provides an opportunity for Ole Miss to showcase their talent on a larger stage, potentially impacting their seeding in upcoming tournaments. For Vanderbilt, maintaining their strong performance is crucial as they aim to continue their successful season under Coach Ralph. The outcome of this game could have implications for both teams' rankings and postseason prospects.
What's Next?
Following this game, both teams will continue their SEC schedules, with Ole Miss looking to build on their momentum and Vanderbilt aiming to recover from any potential setbacks. The performance of key players like Mikayla Blakes for Vanderbilt and Kennedy Todd-Williams for Ole Miss will be closely watched, as their contributions could be pivotal in the outcome of future games. Additionally, the results of this matchup may influence the strategies and adjustments both teams make as they prepare for the SEC tournament and potential NCAA tournament appearances.
