Mikayla Blakes: Vanderbilt's Record-Breaking Freshman!

02 May, 2025

Could a single season redefine the legacy of a college basketball program? Mikayla Blakes, the freshman phenom for the Vanderbilt Commodores, didn't just make a splash; she generated a tidal wave of unprecedented success in the 2025 season, leaving an indelible mark on the sport.

The narrative surrounding Mikayla Blakes' freshman year is one of superlatives and record-breaking performances. From the outset, it was clear that the guard possessed a unique blend of talent, determination, and poise. Attending Rutgers Prep in Franklin Township, New Jersey, Blakes honed her skills before embarking on her collegiate journey. Her impact was immediate, captivating fans and analysts alike with her scoring prowess, court vision, and unwavering competitive spirit. The phrase "storybook freshman season" doesn't even begin to capture the heights she reached. She shattered expectations and records, solidifying her place among the greats.

Category	Details
Full Name	Mikayla Blakes
Position	Guard
Team	Vanderbilt Commodores Women's Basketball
High School	Rutgers Prep (Franklin Township, New Jersey)
Recruiting Ranking (Class of 2024)	No. 10 (Picked Vanderbilt over Indiana, Tennessee, Rutgers, Wisconsin, and Stanford)
Sibling	Jaylen Blakes (Duke Guard)
Achievements (2025 Freshman Year)	SEC Freshman of the Year, USBWA Tamika Catchings National Freshman of the Year, Associated Press Women's College Basketball Player of the Week
Notable Games	Scored an NCAA true freshman record 53 points (16 field goals, 16 free throws)
Quote	"Mikayla Blakes is the gift that keeps on giving."

The numbers speak volumes. In a game against an undisclosed opponent, Blakes didn't just excel; she exploded. Her performance, marked by a staggering 53 pointsan NCAA true freshman record, achieved through 16 field goals and 16 free throwswas a singular display of scoring dominance. She further solidified her legacy by earning the title of Associated Press Women's College Basketball Player of the Week, underscoring the national recognition she garnered. The performance against the Lady Bulldogs, where she posted 36 points, represents the highest single-game scoring performance by a Vanderbilt freshman in program history. Her impact extended beyond individual accolades; she set an NCAA record for most points in a game scored by a freshman, directly contributing to Vanderbilt's winning streak. It's not merely about scoring; it's about the impact on the team and the way she elevated those around her.

Her prowess was on full display during a game played in Austin, Texas, on Thursday, February, 2025, where she was seen driving to the basket against Texas guard Bryanna Preston. Her skill and determination were evident in every moment. The game was a testament to her exceptional abilities.

Blakes' impact was further amplified by her ability to compete at the highest level and her inclusion in the final seven, which also included Indiana, Rutgers, and Stanford. She consistently chose Vanderbilt, and her selection was a testament to her understanding of a team and the goals they are trying to achieve. The SEC Freshman of the Year award, announced on March 4, served as another validation of her extraordinary freshman season. Her performance, coupled with her overall contribution, made her a serious contender, earning her the prestigious title. The USWBA Tamika Catchings National Freshman of the Year award was another acknowledgment, and she will be honored at the final four. The recognition was a culmination of consistent excellence and a signal of the incredible talent of the player.

The impact of Blakes was felt across the basketball landscape, with Talia Goodman (@taliagoodmanwbb) tweeting on February 16, 2025, "Freshman of the year race is over, in my opinion." This encapsulates the overwhelming consensus about Blakes' performance. She was not just a talented player; she was a game-changer who transformed the expectations for the Vanderbilt Commodores. Her presence injected a level of excitement, skill, and competitiveness that was unprecedented.

The significance of Blakes extends beyond the court. Her emergence as a top-tier talent, breaking her own records and rewriting the history books, highlights her work ethic and the unwavering commitment she demonstrated throughout her freshman season. She is the younger sister of Duke guard Jaylen Blakes, demonstrating a family legacy of athletic excellence. Her story is one of resilience, growth, and the relentless pursuit of excellence.

The freshman guard's ability to break records didn't just rewrite historyit redefined it. The season of Mikayla Blakes was a testament to the potential of young athletes. It offered a compelling lesson on the importance of passion, hard work, and determination. Blakes' remarkable run is a source of inspiration, not just for the Vanderbilt community, but for every young athlete. She is a shining example of what can be achieved with the right blend of talent and resolve. The future for this basketball star is exceptionally bright.

Her ability to step up in critical moments was another hallmark of her game. Whether it was scoring in the clutch or making the decisive pass, Blakes consistently proved that she was ready for the big stage. The records Blakes set not only highlighted her individual talent but also propelled the Vanderbilt team to new heights. Her impact on the team dynamics, leadership, and overall success was immeasurable. Every game was a testament to her impact and drive.

Class of 2024 Top Prospect Mikayla Blakes Commits to Vanderbilt Prep

Details

Vanderbilt Women's Basketball Vanderbilt lands 5 star Mikayla Blakes

Details

Vanderbilt’s Mikayla Blakes scores 55 points to break her own SEC, DI

Details

Detail Author:

Name : Vern Zieme
Username : paucek.mason
Email : aditya.rolfson@beier.org
Birthdate : 1996-04-26
Address : 97894 Ullrich Club Apt. 295 Billieland, AK 11318-9482
Phone : 909.512.9556
Company : Beier LLC
Job : Recyclable Material Collector
Bio : Sapiente vel voluptatum et dolores. Aut a aliquid vel aut. Exercitationem nisi et quibusdam et ipsum quo.

Socials

instagram:

url : https://instagram.com/samara7661
username : samara7661
bio : Voluptas dicta dolor eum et. Quos veniam ut nihil sed. Provident amet laboriosam et est.
followers : 793
following : 2910

twitter:

url : https://twitter.com/botsfords
username : botsfords
bio : Tempora ducimus architecto et occaecati voluptatem rerum. Aut qui voluptatem sapiente quam rerum voluptatem iusto. Repellendus sit enim voluptatem est ullam.
followers : 2089
following : 2425