Vanderbilt Faces Backcourt Woes as SEC Tournament Nears

Injuries to key guards leave Commodores' star Tyler Tanner carrying heavy load

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

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For the first time in over a decade, Vanderbilt has a chance to win the SEC Tournament and make a deep run in the 2026 NCAA Tournament. However, the Commodores' backcourt has been decimated by injuries, leaving star guard Tyler Tanner to shoulder an unsustainable burden as the postseason approaches.

Why it matters

Vanderbilt's success this season has been fueled by its talented backcourt, led by Tanner. But with key guards Duke Miles and Frankie Collins sidelined, the Commodores' chances of winning the SEC Tournament and making a deep NCAA Tournament run are in jeopardy, as Tanner may not be able to carry the team alone.

The details

Vanderbilt has a 20-4 record through 24 games, putting it on track for its best regular season since 1992-93. However, the team has struggled without Miles and Collins, going just 4-4 since Jan. 14. Miles underwent knee surgery and has been out since Jan. 24, while Collins has been sidelined since Dec. 17 but is expected to return before the end of the regular season. With the SEC Tournament approaching, Tanner is being run into the ground as the team's sole offensive creator, and Vanderbilt lacks the depth to support him without its other top guards.

  • Vanderbilt has not won the SEC Tournament since 2012.
  • Vanderbilt is 20-4 through 24 games, its best start since 1992-93.
  • Duke Miles has been out since Jan. 24 after undergoing knee surgery.
  • Frankie Collins last played on Dec. 17 but has been medically cleared to return on Feb. 1.

The players

Tyler Tanner

Vanderbilt's sophomore point guard, averaging 18.9 points, 5.3 assists and 2.5 steals per game.

Duke Miles

Vanderbilt's sixth-year guard, averaging 16.6 points, 4.3 assists and 2.8 steals per game before his knee surgery.

Frankie Collins

Vanderbilt's versatile veteran guard, averaging 7.8 points, 4.2 rebounds, 4.7 assists and 2.4 steals per game before his injury.

Mark Byington

Vanderbilt's second-year head coach, looking to lead the Commodores to their first SEC Tournament title since 2012.

Tyler Nickel

Vanderbilt's sharpshooter, leading the SEC in three-point shooting in January.

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What they’re saying

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— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

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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.