Vanderbilt Athletics Thrives with Dominant Wins Across Multiple Sports

Vanderbilt athletics showcased an impressive performance over the weekend, highlighted by a dominating victory in football and strong showings in women’s basketball and bowling. The Commodores triumphed over Kentucky with a score of 45-17, marking a significant achievement for the program.

Vanderbilt’s football team delivered a standout performance, particularly from quarterback Diego Pavia. He threw for a remarkable 484 yards and five touchdowns, setting a new school record for the most passing yards in a single game. Pavia’s display of skill has positioned him as a strong contender for the Heisman Trophy, as he continues to demonstrate his exceptional talent on the field. The Commodores’ defense also shone, allowing just 81 total yards in the first half and limiting Kentucky to only three points through the first three quarters. This victory marks Vanderbilt’s ninth win of the regular season, the first time reaching this milestone since 1915.

Strong Performances in Women’s Basketball and Bowling

In women’s basketball, Vanderbilt continued its winning streak, securing two victories against mid-major opponents. The Commodores defeated Alabama State 92-38 on Friday, with a commanding lead established early in the game. Five players scored in double figures, led by Aga Makurat with 21 points and Mikayla Blakes contributing 19 points. On Sunday, Vanderbilt maintained its momentum, defeating Tennessee State 99-43. The team built an impressive lead, highlighted by freshman point guard Aubrey Galvan, who recorded 15 assists and nine rebounds, tying the program record for assists in a game by a freshman.

The Commodores will next participate in the Paradise Jam in the U.S. Virgin Islands, facing Oregon State on Thanksgiving Day at 19:00 CT on ESPN+.

Vanderbilt’s bowling team also enjoyed success, finishing in second place at the Colonial Lanes Classic, hosted by Tulane University. In the semifinals, the Commodores defeated No. 2 Nebraska in a four-game sweep. However, in the championship round against No. 6 Arkansas State, Vanderbilt won the first game but ultimately fell short, losing the final two games of the tournament. The fall season for bowling concludes with this second-place finish, and the team will return to action on January 16, 2026.

Women’s Tennis Achieves Championship Runner-Up

In women’s tennis, the duo of Céline-Belle Mohr and Sophia Webster advanced to the NCAA Doubles Championships. They achieved a notable victory against Virginia in the quarterfinals, winning in straight sets 6-0, 6-4. In the semifinals, they faced Oklahoma’s No. 12 duo and secured another win, advancing to the championship match against NC State. Despite a strong effort, they finished as runners-up after a closely contested match, losing the first set 4-6 and the second set 5-7.

As Vanderbilt athletics continues to excel across various sports, they are creating a vibrant and competitive atmosphere within the program, demonstrating resilience and skill as they head into the winter season and beyond.