The South Carolina vs. Vandy rivalry is a classic SEC showdown. In the SEC Tournament quarterfinals on March 8, 2025, South Carolina defeated Vanderbilt 84-63.
Here, we’ll break down the key moments from that game and provide a more general analysis of both teams, highlighting standout player performances and strategic approaches.
SEC Tournament Quarterfinal Recap
The South Carolina Gamecocks defeated the Vanderbilt Commodores 84-63 in the SEC Tournament quarterfinal.
South Carolina’s Chloe Kitts dominated the game, scoring 25 points and grabbing 10 rebounds.
Vanderbilt tried to mount a comeback in the second half, but South Carolina’s consistent offense and strong defense kept them at bay. The Gamecocks advanced to the next round.
Vanderbilt’s Offensive Threats: Blakes and Pierre
South Carolina will have to bring their A-game on defense to contain Vanderbilt’s dynamic scoring duo, Mikayla Blakes and Khamil Pierre.
Mikayla Blakes: A Freshman Phenom
Freshman Mikayla Blakes has burst onto the scene this year, averaging an impressive 23.4 points per game, a top mark in the SEC and one of the highest nationally. She’s already had two 50-point games this season, showcasing her exceptional scoring ability.
Even Dawn Staley has acknowledged the challenge in trying to defend Blakes.
Khamil Pierre: Inside Presence
Khamil Pierre adds a strong inside presence for the Commodores, contributing 20.8 points and 9.7 rebounds per game. Her scoring ability near the basket will test South Carolina’s interior defense.
South Carolina’s Strategy
For South Carolina to win, they’ll need to shut down Vanderbilt’s top players. Coach Dawn Staley says you have to focus on what you can control, and that starts with limiting opportunities for Vandy’s Yaubryon Chambers-Blakes to score.
They’ll also need to keep Khamilla Pierre from dominating on rebounds. If South Carolina can manage those two things, their defense will be in a good position for success.
Historical context and predictions
South Carolina has dominated Vanderbilt recently, winning 16 straight games since 2011. But the all-time record is much closer, with South Carolina holding a slight edge at 22-21.
Analysts predict South Carolina will continue its winning ways in the next game, with a projected score of 89-77.
In Conclusion
While South Carolina demonstrated overall strength and consistency, especially on defense, Vanderbilt showed flashes of potential, particularly when Blakes was able to ignite the offense. Ultimately, individual player performances and key matchups proved pivotal in shaping the game’s outcome.
South Carolina’s victory reinforces their position in the SEC, while Vanderbilt will need to build on its strengths to improve its standing. Both teams face crucial games ahead that will determine their trajectory this season.