Top 20 Rematch: Vanderbilt Hosts Kentucky in Memorial Gymnasium

Vanderbilt looks to bounce back at home against Kentucky after a recent road loss.

Feb. 22, 2026 at 12:35pm

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The 5th-ranked Vanderbilt Commodores will host the 16th-ranked Kentucky Wildcats in a highly anticipated rematch at Memorial Gymnasium. Vanderbilt is coming off a road loss, but remains undefeated at home this season. The game features a battle between two of the top teams in the SEC, with Vanderbilt led by star guard Mikayla Blakes and Kentucky featuring a balanced attack led by Tonie Morgan, Clara Strack, and others.

Why it matters

This game is a crucial SEC showdown between two top-20 teams with NCAA Tournament implications. Vanderbilt is looking to bounce back at home and prove they can beat Kentucky, who pushed them to the brink in the first matchup. The winner will gain an important edge in the SEC standings and tournament seeding.

The details

Vanderbilt will look to slow down Kentucky's efficient offense, which shot 56% from the field and 50% from three in the first meeting. Containing Kentucky's post players like Strack and Key will be key, as will getting production from Vanderbilt's supporting cast around Blakes. Freshman Justine Pissott and sophomore Sacha Washington will be players to watch for the Commodores.

  • The game is scheduled for February 22, 2026 at 3:00 PM CST.
  • Vanderbilt is coming off a road loss, while Kentucky is fresh off a bye week.

The players

Mikayla Blakes

Vanderbilt's star guard who poured in 37 points in the first matchup against Kentucky.

Tonie Morgan

Kentucky's leading scorer, averaging 14.4 points per game.

Clara Strack

Kentucky's dominant post player, averaging a double-double with 16.5 points and 10.5 rebounds per game.

Justine Pissott

Vanderbilt's sharp-shooting forward who will look to bounce back after a quiet first game against Kentucky.

Sacha Washington

Vanderbilt's physical forward who had a strong performance in the first matchup against Kentucky.

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What’s next

The winner of this game will gain an important edge in the SEC standings and tournament seeding.

The takeaway

This SEC showdown between two top-20 teams features a rematch of an earlier close game. Vanderbilt will look to protect its home court and prove it can beat Kentucky, while the Wildcats aim to solve the Commodores' defense and Mikayla Blakes. The outcome could have significant implications for both teams' NCAA Tournament aspirations.