Vanderbilt Guard Frankie Collins Nearing Return From Injury

Commodores hopeful Collins can play this upcoming week after missing time with meniscus injury

Jan. 31, 2026 at 8:47pm

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Vanderbilt guard Frankie Collins has been out since mid-December with a meniscus injury, but head coach Mark Byington said Collins is medically cleared to play and the team is hopeful he can return to the court this upcoming week during Vanderbilt's bye. Collins has averaged 7.8 points, 4.7 assists and 4.2 rebounds per game this season and has been a key defensive contributor with 2.4 steals per game.

Why it matters

Collins' return would provide a major boost to Vanderbilt's defense and depth as the Commodores look to continue their strong start to SEC play. His ability to create turnovers and push the pace has been missed during his absence.

The details

Collins last played in Vanderbilt's overtime win over Memphis on Dec. 17. The guard has been sidelined with a meniscus injury since mid-December. Byington said Collins is medically cleared to play and the team is 'hopeful' he can return to the court this upcoming week during Vanderbilt's bye week.

  • Collins last played on December 17, 2025.
  • Collins has been out with a meniscus injury since mid-December 2025.

The players

Frankie Collins

A Vanderbilt guard who has been out since mid-December with a meniscus injury. He has averaged 7.8 points, 4.7 assists and 4.2 rebounds per game this season.

Mark Byington

The head coach of the Vanderbilt men's basketball team.

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What they’re saying

“Frankie is medically cleared to play. We just got to get him going. Hopefully this bye week's the one, but he's got to push himself and get ready.”

— Mark Byington, Head Coach

What’s next

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The takeaway

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