Vandy Holds Off a Determined Memphis at FedEx / MTSU Hangs On to Beat Kennesaw at Home

Photo / Vanderbilt Athletics

MEMPHIS, TN - An undefeated Vanderbilt had their hands full against a strong Memphis Tigers team last night at the FedEx Forum in Memphis. The game was not just a test of skill, but also of grit and determination as both teams battled fiercely from start to finish.

Vanderbilt's victory was hard-earned, with the Commodores edging out the Tigers 77-70 in overtime.

The win keeps Vanderbilt as one of the seven remaining undefeated major programs in the country. With a game-high 22 points from Duke Miles, who also tallied six steals, the Commodores proved their mettle. Tyler Tanner added 16 points, while Jalen Washington contributed 14, ensuring the team had enough firepower to stave off a relentless Memphis squad.

Memphis, despite struggling with their shooting, showcased resilience. Deep into the second half, the Tigers orchestrated a 10-0 run, turning a significant Vanderbilt lead into a commanding 44-40 advantage with 12 minutes to play. The Tigers were fueled by the performances of Dug McDaniel and Sincere Parker, both scoring 18 points and providing critical plays when the team needed them the most.

In the final moments of regulation, Memphis tied the game at 68-68, forcing overtime. Vanderbilt, however, found a gear that was missing earlier in the game. They executed a 9-0 run, capitalizing on free throws and keeping the Tigers' hopes at bay. The Commodores displayed remarkable composure, sinking 11 of 13 free throws in the extra period to seal the deal and secure the hard-fought victory.

Next up Vandy plays Wake Forest in Winston-Salem, NC on Sunday, Dec. 21st.

MURFREESBORO, TN - Meanwhile, in Murfreesboro, Tennessee, Middle Tennessee State (MTSU) opened its Conference USA play with a narrow 68-67 victory against Kennesaw State. Kamari Lands, a former Louisville prospect, shone bright with a career-high 24 points, along with nine rebounds. His leadership proved vital for the Blue Raiders, especially as they faced challenges when CUSA Preseason Player of the Year Simeon Cottle found himself in foul trouble early.

MTSU utilized aggressive defense to limit Kennesaw State to just 31 points in the first half, marking it the lowest score for the Owls in any half this season. The Blue Raiders capitalized on Kennesaw’s turnovers, generating 15 points off 11 forced errors.

As the game progressed, Kennesaw State was relentless, chipping away at MTSU’s lead and bringing the score within striking distance. With less than a minute to go, the Owls managed to pull within one point. In a frantic finish, MTSU grabbed a significant offensive rebound, eventually forcing one last miss from Kennesaw as time expired and clinching the victory.

MTSU’s Coach Nick McDevitt praised his team, especially highlighting the defensive effort that held one of the nation’s highest-scoring teams to below their average. The win not only locked in their Conference USA opening game but also demonstrated the resilience and determination of a team eager to make its mark this season.

Next up MTSU faces Cumberland at home on Sunday, Dec. 21st.