Vanderbilt Edges Out Ole Miss in Close Game

Commodores' bench players step up in victory over Rebels

Jan. 31, 2026 at 11:31pm

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In a sluggish game, Vanderbilt's defense and contributions from the bench helped the Commodores defeat Ole Miss 71-68. The Commodores forced 9 turnovers in the first half, but struggled in the second half before holding on for the win. Strong performances from Tyler Tanner and AK Okereke led the way, while Mike James provided a boost off the bench despite limited minutes this season.

Why it matters

The victory keeps Vanderbilt in contention in the SEC, as they look to build momentum heading into a key matchup against Oklahoma next week. The Commodores are hoping to have starting guard Frankie Collins back from injury for that game.

The details

Vanderbilt's defense and bench play were the keys to the victory. The Commodores forced 9 Ole Miss turnovers in the first half, but struggled with fatigue and lineup changes in the second half before holding on. Tyler Tanner and AK Okereke led the way for Vanderbilt, while Mike James provided a spark off the bench despite limited minutes this season.

  • The game was originally scheduled to be played in Oxford, Mississippi, but was moved to Vanderbilt's Memorial Gym.
  • The game took place on Saturday, February 1, 2026.

The players

Tyler Tanner

A key contributor for Vanderbilt in the victory.

AK Okereke

Also had a strong performance to lead the Commodores.

Mike James

Provided a boost off the bench for Vanderbilt despite limited minutes this season.

Frankie Collins

Vanderbilt's starting guard who is hoping to return from injury for the team's next game against Oklahoma.

Mark Byington

Vanderbilt's head coach who discussed the team's performance and Collins' injury status.

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What they’re saying

“He's a professional. When he was out of the rotation, nothing changed from his routine. He really just approached the game with a very mature mindset, and it's very difficult to be in that situation. A lot of guys would have honestly folded and kind of mailed it in, but he stayed ready. Just through his workout regimen, and you can see when he's out there, he's ready to play every single time. And so that's what we expect from him, and that's what he's going to continue giving us.”

— AK Okereke (Instagram)

“Frankie's medically cleared, and we just got to get him going. So, hopefully this week's the one, but he's got to push himself and get ready. I know we counted on him. We invested in him, and he's a guy that really helps us win. So hopefully, he'd have the same motivation to get back.”

— Mark Byington, Head Coach (Press Conference)

What’s next

Vanderbilt is hopeful to have starting guard Frankie Collins back for their matchup next Saturday versus Oklahoma. The Sooners and Commodores face off at 2:30 p.m. CT on Saturday, Feb. 7 in Memorial Gymnasium.

The takeaway

Vanderbilt's ability to win a close game against Ole Miss despite missing key players demonstrates the team's depth and resilience. The Commodores will look to build on this victory as they prepare to face a tough Oklahoma squad, with the potential return of Frankie Collins providing a boost.