Vanderbilt Freshman Leverett Praises Coaches, Teammates After Breakout Season

Leverett credits strong bonds with coaches and players for his personal growth and team's NCAA Tournament run.

Mar. 19, 2026 at 2:08am

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Vanderbilt freshman center Jayden Leverett reflected on his standout first season, highlighting the close relationships he's developed with head coach Mark Byington and his teammates. Leverett, who expected to be a role player, was pleasantly surprised by how quickly he integrated into the team's family-like atmosphere. He credited the team's strong bonds for Vanderbilt's success in reaching the NCAA Tournament, and said he looks forward to continuing to play for Byington for the next four years.

Why it matters

Leverett's experience underscores the importance of team chemistry and player development in college basketball. Despite being a freshman expected to have a limited role, Leverett thrived by embracing the team culture and heeding his coaches' guidance to become more physical. His story shows how fostering a tight-knit locker room can translate to on-court success.

The details

Leverett, a freshman big man, played a key role off the bench for Vanderbilt this season, seeing his playing time increase as he became more physical and embraced his role. He praised head coach Mark Byington for constantly pushing him to improve, saying Byington's motivation and belief in him has been crucial. Leverett also highlighted the strong bonds he's developed with his teammates, noting they regularly hang out together and have created a family-like atmosphere within the locker room. This team chemistry, Leverett believes, has been a major factor in Vanderbilt's NCAA Tournament run.

  • Vanderbilt defeated Tennessee 75-68 in the SEC Tournament quarterfinals on March 19, 2026.

The players

Jayden Leverett

A freshman center for the Vanderbilt Commodores basketball team who has emerged as an important role player in his first season.

Mark Byington

The head coach of the Vanderbilt Commodores basketball team, known for pushing his players to improve and develop strong relationships with them.

Devin McGlockton

A Vanderbilt big man who has formed a close bond with Leverett, with the two often playing video games together.

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What they’re saying

“It feels great. Coaches are always on me to be great and I love everyone like family to me. Our bond is great. But I've had an amazing first year here and I'm looking forward to more great seasons with these guys.”

— Jayden Leverett, Vanderbilt Freshman Center

“He's a very good inspiration. He always motivates everyone and motivates me to get better. He always is on me, but I know he's on me because he sees the potential in me. I love my coach. I think he's an amazing coach. I look forward to being with him all four years here.”

— Jayden Leverett, Vanderbilt Freshman Center

“Oh definitely, this is a family environment. This is one of the most connected teams I've ever been a part of. These are my brothers and I know if I need anything, they can talk to anybody on the team. It shows on the court when we play together just the trust we have in each other.”

— Devin McGlockton, Vanderbilt Big Man

What’s next

Leverett and the Vanderbilt Commodores will continue their NCAA Tournament run, looking to build on the strong team chemistry and personal growth Leverett has experienced in his breakout freshman season.

The takeaway

Jayden Leverett's story demonstrates the value of player development and team culture in college basketball. Despite being a role player expected to have a limited impact, Leverett thrived by embracing the close-knit environment fostered by coach Mark Byington and his Vanderbilt teammates, leading to his own personal growth and the team's success in reaching the NCAA Tournament.