Ole Miss Women’s Basketball Tops Vanderbilt in Birmingham

BAIRMMINGHAM, Ala. — The Ole Miss women’s basketball team earned a significant victory Friday afternoon, defeating Vanderbilt 83-75 in Birmingham. The Rebels, ranked 17th nationally, improved to 18-4 overall and 5-2 in SEC play with the win, which was their sixth straight against Vanderbilt.

The Rebels’ all-around effort included strong performances from Cotie McMahon and Christeen Iwuala. McMahon scored 27 points, tying her season high and moving her within two games of tying her personal single-season record for 20-plus point games. Iwuala contributed 18 points, 14 rebounds, and achieved her eighth double-double of the season.

Ole Miss also held Vanderbilt’s potent three-point shooters to just four made baskets on 25 percent shooting, a significant defensive accomplishment. The Commodores, who entered the game averaging 9.9 three-pointers per contest, struggled from long range throughout the game.

Vanderbilt led early, but Ole Miss took control in the second quarter and maintained their lead through the second half. The Rebels extended their lead to as much as 20 points in the third quarter before Vanderbilt mounted a comeback. The game remained competitive until the final minutes, when McMahon sealed the victory with crucial free throws.

Ole Miss coach Yolett McPhee-McCuin noted the team’s defensive effort against Vanderbilt’s shooting. She also celebrated her team’s success in beating a top-five opponent, a feat the program last achieved during the 1995-96 season.

The Rebels will stay in Birmingham for their next game against Auburn, scheduled for 6 p.m. Monday on SEC Network+. Ole Miss is 6-0 in series history against Auburn.

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