Vanderbilt's Tyler Tanner Embraces Heavy Workload Amid Injuries

Sophomore point guard says he's ready to play 40+ minutes to lead shorthanded Commodores

Jan. 29, 2026 at 2:07pm

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With Vanderbilt point guards Duke Miles and Frankie Collins sidelined by injuries, sophomore Tyler Tanner has stepped up to shoulder a heavy workload for the Commodores. Tanner's trainer says the guard "doesn't get tired" and can play a full game, a theory that's being put to the test as Tanner is tasked with running the offense for an extended period. Tanner embraces the increased responsibility, saying his endurance and conditioning allow him to impact the game for 40 minutes or more if needed.

Why it matters

Vanderbilt is relying on the maturity and stamina of its young point guard to keep the team afloat while two veteran guards recover from injuries. Tanner's ability to play heavy minutes and lead the offense could be the difference between the Commodores staying competitive in the SEC or struggling without their usual floor generals.

The details

With Duke Miles and Frankie Collins sidelined, Tanner played a team-high 37 minutes in Vanderbilt's recent win over Kentucky, scoring 19 points with 5 assists and 4 steals. His trainer says Tanner's endurance is a major asset, allowing him to maintain a high level of play even as most players would start to fatigue. Tanner believes his conditioning puts him in position to make plays late in games that others may miss.

  • Tanner's trainer reached out to him before Vanderbilt's Thanksgiving tournament in the Bahamas.
  • Tanner played 30 minutes in Vanderbilt's Battle 4 Atlantis championship game against Saint Mary's.
  • Miles underwent a minor knee surgery on Wednesday, January 25, 2026.
  • Collins is sidelined with a meniscus injury, though the timeline for his return is unclear.

The players

Tyler Tanner

A sophomore point guard for Vanderbilt who has taken on a larger role with injuries to his teammates. His trainer says his endurance and conditioning allow him to play extended minutes without fatigue.

Spencer Richardson

Tanner's personal trainer, who has been a key part of the guard's development and rise. Richardson believes Tanner's ability to play 40+ minutes is a major asset for Vanderbilt.

Duke Miles

A veteran Vanderbilt guard who underwent a minor knee surgery, sidelining him temporarily.

Frankie Collins

Another experienced Vanderbilt point guard who is out with a meniscus injury, putting more responsibility on Tanner.

Jalen Washington

A Vanderbilt big man who has witnessed Tanner's impressive development from his freshman to sophomore season.

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What they’re saying

“It's almost like Kim Mulkey said about Mikayla Blakes, 'she doesn't get tired,' Same thing with Ty. Ty can play a whole game.”

— Spencer Richardson, Tanner's Trainer

“My body's ready for it. Endurance wise, I can play 40 minutes or 50 minutes. Whatever they need me to do, I can do just because I think I'm in the best shape of my life right now with playing all these minutes and in the SEC and everything.”

— Tyler Tanner

“He's mature beyond his years. Just the jump that he's taking from, I haven't even seen him play last year, but just hearing about how much of a jump he's made from his freshman year to his sophomore year being able to witness that first hand, is incredible.”

— Jalen Washington, Vanderbilt Big Man

What’s next

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The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.