Full Breakdown
Vanderbilt Sets Nov. 10 Home Clash with In-State Rival Memphis
5/27/2026, 10:29:27 PM
Scheduled Nonconference Game
Vanderbilt University’s men’s basketball team will host the University of Memphis Tigers on November 10, 2026, at Memorial Gymnasium. The contest completes the second half of a home-and-home series that began the previous season, when Vanderbilt traveled to the FedEx Forum in Memphis and won 77-70 in overtime on December 17, 2025. The contest will be played in Vanderbilt’s Memorial Gymnasium.
Rivalry Background
The November meeting marks the 18th meeting between the Commodores and the Tigers. Vanderbilt currently leads the all-time series 9-8 and holds a 5-3 record in games played at Memorial. Thirteen of the first seventeen contests were decided by ten points or fewer, underscoring the rivalry’s competitive balance. The 77-70 overtime win was Vanderbilt’s first series victory since 1997, ending a four-game drought. The Commodores–Tigers matchup is regarded as one of the most compelling nonconference rivalries in college basketball.
Recent Season Performance and Coaching
The Commodores concluded the 2025-26 campaign with a 27-9 record, finishing in the SEC’s top four and earning a No. 5 seed in the NCAA tournament, where they reached the Round of 32. Head coach Mark Byington was credited with exceeding preseason expectations.
Roster Changes and Point Guard Decision
Vanderbilt hit the transfer portal hard after losing several key contributors from the prior roster. The program’s next roster decision centers on point guard Tyler Tanner, who must choose by the upcoming Wednesday night whether to remain in the NBA draft or return for another season. Coaching staff indicated that Tanner’s return could position Vanderbilt with one of the conference’s strongest lineups.
Key Figures
- Mark Byington – Head coach, credited with the 27-9 season.
- Tyler Tanner – Point guard, pending draft decision.
- Graham Baakko – Sports writer for Vanderbilt Commodores On SI, University of Alabama graduate covering football, basketball, baseball.
Data & Statistics
- Series record: Vanderbilt 9, Memphis 8.
- Home record at Memorial: Vanderbilt 5-3.
- 2025-26 season: 27 wins, 9 losses; SEC top-four finish; No. 5 NCAA seed; Round of 32 appearance.
- 2025-26 head-to-head result: Vanderbilt 77, Memphis 70 (OT).
Impact and Outlook for 2026-27
The November game initiates Vanderbilt’s nonconference slate, which also includes home contests against Wake Forest on November 5 and UCF on November 20. The outcome of Tanner’s decision will influence the team’s depth and competitive standing in the SEC. The schedule also includes a bye week that remains to be finalized, and the SEC/ACC Challenge opponent is expected to be scheduled for the first week of December.
What’s Next
Season tickets for the 2026-27 campaign will be offered shortly, with an interest form available for fans. Fans may submit the Season Ticket Interest Form for availability updates.
