Mikayla Blakes Thriving in Vanderbilt

Originally posted on Beyond Women's Sports | Last updated Jan 28, 2026 3:03 PM ET

Coming off a freshman season in which Mikayla Blakes averaged 23.3 points per game. She has followed that up with a great start to her sophomore year. The Vanderbilt Commodores are 20-1 and currently ranked No. 5. Blakes has emerged not just as Vanderbilt’s leading scorer, but as one of the most dominant two-way players in the country.

Offense

In her second year at Vanderbilt, Blakes is averaging 24.7 points, 3.8 rebounds, 4.4 assists, and 3.1 steals per game. Blakes’ impact isn’t just flat statistics — she’s consistently delivered in high-profile matchups. In a key SEC victory at Arkansas, she posted 35 points, eight assists, and three steals. Blakes has scored 30 or more points in five teams this season. She is shooting 45.1% from the field and 31.6% from three-point range.

Blakles can shoot off the dribble and also catch in shoot situations. While she does not shoot a high three-point percentage, Blake can knock down a three-pointer. The shooting guard also does a great job getting to the free-throw line, where Blakes is shooting 88.3%. She does a good job creating shots for herself and getting her teammates involved.

Blakes was named to the preseason watch list for the Ann Meyers-Drysdale Shooting Guard of the Year Award, highlighting her status as one of the nation’s top perimeter players.

Defense

The NCAA named Blakes to the Naismith National Defensive Player of the Year Watch List because of her ability to defend. Blakes leads Vanderbilt in steals with 66 and ranks among the SEC’s best defenders. Ranks third in the SEC in total steals and fifth in steals per game. Blakes does a good job getting into passing lanes and creating turnovers. Blakes is a high-motor player who gives tremendous effort on defense; she challenges driving lanes and forces players to make difficult decisions.

As the season progresses towards March and NCAA Tournament play, Blake’s rise will be a key storyline for Vanderbilt. With her combination of scoring, defensive tenacity, and leadership, she’s not just stepping up — she’s defining what it means to carry a program into national contention. If Blakes continues on her current trajectory, she could be in the conversation for national Player of the Year honors by season’s end.

This article first appeared on Beyond Women's Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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