No. 11 Vanderbilt men’s basketball continued its historic start to the season Saturday afternoon, defeating LSU 84–73 at Memorial Gymnasium to improve to 16–0 (3–0 SEC). The win matched the program record for the best undefeated start, previously set during the 2007–08 season, as the Commodores never trailed in the contest.
Coming off an emotional victory over Alabama earlier in the week, Vanderbilt showed composure and toughness in a physical matchup. The Commodores built a 14-point halftime lead and maintained control despite LSU twice cutting the deficit to seven in the second half.
Balanced scoring fueled the win, with five Commodores reaching double figures. Tyler Tanner led the way with 20 points, marking his fifth 20-point performance of the season. Duke Miles added 17 points and five assists, while Tyler Nickel recorded his first career double-double with 19 points and 10 rebounds. AK Okereke (12 points, nine rebounds) and Jalen Washington (11 points, eight rebounds) also made key contributions.
Defensively, Vanderbilt dictated the game, forcing 14 turnovers while tallying 10 steals and six blocks. The Commodores also capitalized in transition, using their defensive pressure to create scoring opportunities and close out the Tigers down the stretch.
LSU was led by Max Mackinnon’s 27 points, with Marquel Sutton adding 13, but Vanderbilt’s depth and discipline proved too much as the Commodores stayed perfect on the season.
