In an exciting NCAA Tournament season opener, Vanderbilt overcame a 12-point deficit to defeat McNeese 78-68 in Oklahoma City. The Commodores, seeded No. 5 in the South Region, showcased resilience and skill, advancing to face No. 4 Nebraska in the upcoming round.
Key Performers
- Tyler Tanner: 26 points, 7 rebounds, 5 assists
- Duke Miles: 13 points
- Devin McGlockton: 12 points
- Tyler Nickel: 12 points
- Garwey Dual (McNeese): 16 points
- Larry Johnson (McNeese): 15 points
Game Highlights
Vanderbilt struggled initially, trailing for much of the first half. McNeese, a No. 12 seed with a history of upsets, led by as much as 12 points before the Commodores shifted momentum after the break.
Nickel’s critical three-pointer with 4:09 remaining in the first half marked a turning point, giving Vanderbilt a 30-28 lead—its first since early in the game. The Commodores then held a 38-35 advantage at halftime.
Second Half Surge
Vanderbilt continued to build on its lead, starting the second half with back-to-back three-pointers from Miles and Nickel, extending the score to 45-35. McNeese attempted to close the gap with a 7-0 run, but the Commodores maintained control of the game.
Shooting Statistics
| Team | Field Goals Made | Field Goal Percentage | Free Throws Made | Free Throw Percentage |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Vanderbilt | 26 | 51% | 17 | 85% |
| McNeese | 25 | 36.2% | N/A | N/A |
With this victory, Vanderbilt not only demonstrated their capability to overcome adversity but also showcased their scoring efficiency, particularly in the second half. As they prepare for their next match against Nebraska, the Commodores aim to build on this momentum.
