NASHVILLE, Tenn. – The Vanderbilt women’s basketball team is gearing up for an exciting home opener against Furman. They will hit the court at Memorial Gymnasium on November 10, 2025, at 6 p.m. CT, with live coverage on SEC Network.
Vanderbilt enters this matchup with a victory in hand, having defeated California 74-65 in their last game in Paris. Sophomore Mikayla Blakes stood out with 27 points, showcasing her talent as she continues to impress. Aiyana Mitchell also shone, earning her first double-double with 12 points and 10 rebounds. Graduate Sacha Washington returned to action, contributing 10 points after missing a significant amount of time.
Coach Shea Ralph has a strong start to her season, marking her fifth consecutive season-opening win. This feat sets her apart in program history as the first head coach to achieve five straight wins in season openers. The team has also displayed impressive performances in home openers, holding a 44-4 record all-time at Memorial Gym.
Vanderbilt has a rich history against Furman, maintaining a 2-0 record in their previous matchups, the last one being a 74-46 victory in 2019. As they aim to go 2-0 for the season, they are looking to repeat their success from the past, marking four straight seasons opening with two victories.
The Commodores also opened the current season ranked No. 19 in the AP Poll and No. 21 in the USA Today Coaches Poll. This is their first national ranking since the 2012-13 season, creating optimism among fans and players alike.
Statistically, under Coach Ralph’s leadership, Vanderbilt has excelled against non-conference opponents, holding a 50-19 record. They’ve won 20 consecutive non-conference home games, showcasing their dominance at Memorial Gym.
Mikayla Blakes, the standout scorer, averaged 23.3 points per game last season. Her consistent scoring ability has made her one of the top players in NCAA Division I women’s basketball. Having scored in double digits for 20 straight games, she’s set high expectations for the season ahead.
Sacha Washington’s return is another highlight. After 957 days away, she made a solid comeback in Paris, contributing not just in points but also in rebounds and steals, demonstrating her importance to the team.
The Paladins come into the game with a record of 1-1. They recently faced a tough loss against Georgia, which may serve as a motivating factor for their match against Vanderbilt. Furman’s leading scorer, Raina McGowens, is averaging 11 points per game and shooting impressively from the field. The team has been averaging 65 points while allowing 59, reflecting a tight defensive strategy.
As fans gear up for what promises to be an exciting game, it’s clear that both teams will bring their best effort. This season is already shaping up to be a memorable one for the Commodores. For up-to-date information and exclusive content, follow the team on social media.
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