Mike James Delivers Clutch Performance to Help Vanderbilt Defeat Ole Miss

The Vanderbilt guard came off the bench to make game-sealing plays in the win over Ole Miss.

Jan. 31, 2026 at 10:55pm

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Vanderbilt guard Mike James had a standout performance off the bench, scoring a season-high 9 points and grabbing a season-high 9 rebounds to help lead his team to a 70-63 victory over Ole Miss. James hit 3 crucial three-pointers in the final minutes, including one that gave Vanderbilt a critical 7-point lead late in the game. Vanderbilt head coach Mark Byington praised James' ability to make "winning plays" and credited his rebounding as a key factor in the win.

Why it matters

Vanderbilt has struggled with rebounding in SEC play, so James' strong performance on the boards was a significant boost for the team. His timely three-pointers also helped seal the victory in a close game against a conference rival. This game showcased James' value as a role player who can step up when called upon.

The details

James finished the game 3-for-9 shooting, including 3-for-8 from three-point range. He also contributed 2 assists. Vanderbilt and Ole Miss each had 33 rebounds, an improvement for Vanderbilt which has been outrebounded by double digits in some games. James' increased playing time of 26 minutes was due to the absence of Vanderbilt's second-leading scorer, Duke Miles.

  • Mike James hit a crucial three-pointer to give Vanderbilt a 70-63 lead in the final minutes of the game.

The players

Mike James

A Vanderbilt guard who had a standout performance off the bench, scoring a season-high 9 points and grabbing a season-high 9 rebounds to help lead his team to victory.

AK Okereke

A Vanderbilt forward who passed the ball to James for the game-sealing three-pointer.

Tyler Tanner

A Vanderbilt guard who passed the ball to Okereke, leading to the assist to James for the three-pointer.

Mark Byington

The Vanderbilt head coach who praised James' ability to make "winning plays" and credited his rebounding as a key factor in the win.

Duke Miles

Vanderbilt's second-leading scorer who was absent from this game, leading to increased playing time for James.

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What they’re saying

“He's really establishing a good role on our team right now. He's made big shots and I thought his third three was huge.”

— Mark Byington, Vanderbilt Head Coach

“We were struggling as a team rebounding and sometimes in traffic rebounding. And for him to come in and grab those were very important for us. We talk about making winning plays and I think a lot of people will see the threes that he made. But those rebounds were huge.”

— Mark Byington, Vanderbilt Head Coach

“I have a lot of admiration for him. He's a professional. When he was out of the rotation, nothing changed from his routine. He really just approaches the game with a very mature mindset. A lot of guys would have honestly folded and kind of mailed it in, but he stayed ready. Just through his workout regime, and you can see when he's out there, he's ready to play every single time.”

— AK Okereke, Vanderbilt Forward

What’s next

Vanderbilt will look to build on James' strong performance as they continue their SEC schedule. The team's ability to rebound and get contributions from role players like James will be key going forward.

The takeaway

Mike James' clutch performance off the bench showcased his value as a role player who can step up when called upon. His timely three-pointers and rebounding prowess were crucial in helping Vanderbilt secure a hard-fought victory over a conference rival, demonstrating his maturity and commitment to the team.