Vanderbilt Advances with Gritty Win Over McNeese in NCAA Tournament

On March 19, 2026, the Vanderbilt Commodores secured a significant 78-68 victory over the McNeese Cowboys in the first round of the NCAA Tournament, marking their first tournament win since 2012. As the No. 5 seed in the South Region, Vanderbilt faced No. 12 seed McNeese at the Paycom Center in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. The Commodores, who trailed by as many as 11 points in the first half, rallied to take control in the second half, showcasing resilience and teamwork.

The Tennessean

Vanderbilt's performance was characterized by a slow start, as they struggled against McNeese's aggressive defense, falling behind 16-5 early in the game. However, the Commodores adjusted, with Tyler Tanner leading the charge, scoring 26 points, including 17 in the second half. The team shot 51% from the field and managed to outscore McNeese 34-22 in the paint. Despite committing 13 turnovers, Vanderbilt's defensive efforts and rebounding allowed them to maintain their lead throughout the second half.

Commodores Advance: Vanderbilt Survives McNeese 78-68, First NCAA Tournament Win in 14 YearsThe TennesseanSports Illustrated247SportsMen’s Basketball: 5-seed Vanderbilt takes down 12-seed McNeese, 78-68, in first round of NCAA Tournament

Tyler Tanner's standout performance included not only his scoring but also seven rebounds and five assists. Devin McGlockton contributed significantly with 12 points on perfect shooting and eight rebounds, while Duke Miles and Tyler Nickel added 13 and 12 points, respectively. The team's depth was evident, as four players scored in double figures, demonstrating their unselfish play and ability to share the spotlight.

247Sports

Head coach Mark Byington praised his team's grit, stating, "What an extremely hard-fought game, and that's what you expect in the NCAA Tournament... I just don't think we were ourselves for the majority of the game, especially the start." He acknowledged McNeese's strong start and credited his players for figuring out how to win despite not playing their best basketball.

Sports Illustrated

Despite the victory, there were concerns regarding Vanderbilt's early performance. Critics noted the team's high turnover rate and the need for improvement in their offensive execution. Byington himself remarked on the team's sluggish start, indicating that they would need to elevate their play in the upcoming rounds.

247Sports

Vanderbilt is set to face No. 4 seed Nebraska in the Round of 32 on March 21, 2026. Byington highlighted the challenge ahead, noting that they would essentially be playing a "road game" due to the expected overwhelming support for Nebraska from their fans. The Commodores will need to prepare for a hostile environment and continue to build on their momentum from the win over McNeese.

Men’s Basketball: Three takeaways from Vanderbilt’s Round of 64 win over McNeese

• “Opening Statement “What an extremely hard-fought game, and that's what you expect in the NCAA Tournament.” — Mark Byington, Head Coach

Sports Illustrated

• “We just wanted to come out (in the second half) with more energy,” — Tyler Tanner, Guard

247Sports

• “I like the fact that we’ve had experience on the road.” — Mark Byington, Head Coach

Tyler Morning Telegraph

Vanderbilt's victory not only advances them in the tournament but also revitalizes the program's aspirations, as they aim to build on this momentum and make a deeper run in March Madness.

Sports Illustrated