Vanderbilt Women’s Basketball will face an early-season test as it travels to Tampa, Florida, to take on the University of South Florida Bulls on Nov. 14. The Commodores have had a promising start to their 2024-25 season under the leadership of head coach Shea Ralph, posting a 2-0 record with dominant victories over Lipscomb and Austin Peay.
This strong opening has been led by standout first-year guard Mikayla Blakes, who has quickly established herself as a cornerstone of the team. Blakes, a 5-star recruit who was ranked 10th among all high schoolers nationally, has averaged 19.5 points on an efficient 54% shooting, alongside 4 rebounds, 3 assists, and 2.5 steals per game.
Blakes’ performance has earned her early recognition, as she was highlighted by On3 for one of the top freshman performances of the week. Her impressive play is particularly crucial as the Commodores are currently without senior forward Sascha Washington due to a non-basketball-related health issue. Washington’s absence leaves a considerable gap, especially given her breadth of experience in the frontcourt.
Vanderbilt’s success has also been bolstered by sophomore Khamil Pierre, who contributed a double-double (13 points and 11 rebounds) in the Commodores’ resounding 93-37 win over Austin Peay. The Commodores have also welcomed sophomore forward Madison Greene back to the court, who has averaged 13.5 points in her first two games back from a season-ending injury she suffered last December.
However, the Commodores’ depth and resilience will be tested as they face stiffer competition, starting with USF.
Breaking down the Bulls
USF, led by experienced head coach Jose Fernandez, has been a consistent contender in the American Athletic Conference since he took over in 2000. The Bulls fell short of a 2024 NCAA Tournament bid after going 19-14 in the 2023-24 season. USF has opened this season with a 2-1 record, securing blowout victories over Bethune-Cookman (87-44) and Mount St. Mary’s (68-51) before falling to powerhouse No. 2 UConn, 49-86.
Transfer guard Mama Dembele has shown prowess early in the season, notably putting up 12 points against UConn. Her playmaking and energy add a new dimension to USF’s backcourt, making her a player to watch as she looks to build on her strong performances. Additionally, graduate guard Sammie Puisis and senior forward L’or Mputu bring valuable depth and versatility to the Bulls’ lineup. Puisis, known for her sharpshooting ability, provides a consistent threat from beyond the arc, averaging 16 points per game so far this season, while Mputu’s athleticism and defensive capabilities bolster USF’s backcourt dynamics.
USF’s recent matchup against UConn highlighted both its potential and areas for growth. The team’s ability to bounce back and find success through its key players — including Dembele, Puisis and Mputu — will be essential as they look to challenge Vanderbilt’s high-energy play.
Keys to the game
Maintaining defensive intensity and capitalizing on Blakes’ playmaking will be essential for Vanderbilt. The Commodores’ ability to manage the absence of Washington through cohesive team effort and contributions from other key players, such as Pierre and Greene, will also be a focal point.
USF will aim to leverage its home-court advantage and disrupt Vanderbilt’s offensive flow. The Bulls will look to veteran leadership and tactical adjustments from Fernandez to rebound from their tough loss against UConn and assert themselves against the Commodores.
This matchup presents an early measuring stick for both programs. For Vanderbilt, continuing their winning momentum on the road against a higher-quality opponent will be an important step as they build toward SEC play. Conversely, this game offers USF a chance to prove its resilience and competitiveness following a recent defeat.
Fans can anticipate a compelling contest as two teams with postseason ambitions clash in what promises to be a showcase of emerging talent and strategic coaching.
Tipoff is set for 6 p.m. CST on Nov. 14 at the Yuengling Center in Tampa, Florida.
