Breaking News: Freshman Mikayla Blakes Leads All Newcomers with 23.3 Points Per Game, Awarded National Honors
In a sensational breakout season, freshman Mikayla Blakes has taken the college basketball world by storm, leading all newcomers with an impressive average of 23.3 points per game. The standout performance has earned Blakes well-deserved national recognition, cementing her status as one of the most promising young players in the country.
Blakes, a 6-foot-2 guard for the Vanderbilt Commodores, quickly became the focal point of the team’s offense in her first year. Her scoring ability, combined with her size and athleticism, has made her an immediate force on the court. Throughout the 2025 season, Blakes showcased an array of skills, from her deadly outside shooting to her ability to drive to the basket with ease. Her playmaking and versatility have not only made her a fan favorite but also a nightmare for opposing defenses.
The national honors bestowed upon Blakes are a testament to her remarkable season. Averaging over 23 points per game is a rare feat for a freshman, especially in a power conference like the SEC, known for its fierce competition. In addition to her scoring, Blakes contributed across the board with 6.5 rebounds and 4.2 assists per game, solidifying her as an all-around player capable of impacting the game in numerous ways. Her ability to control the pace of the game and deliver in clutch moments was crucial for the Commodores, who finished strong in the SEC standings.
Blakes’ impact on Vanderbilt’s success has been undeniable. As a key player, she led the Commodores to an at-large bid to the NCAA Tournament, marking a significant step forward for the program under head coach Stephanie White. The team’s improved performance, which included several upsets over top-ranked SEC opponents, was largely driven by Blakes’ scoring and leadership. In games against powerhouse teams like South Carolina and Tennessee, Blakes consistently rose to the occasion, putting up big numbers and keeping Vanderbilt in contention.
After the regular season, Blakes was selected to the All-SEC First Team, making her the only freshman in the conference to earn the prestigious honor. Her performance in the SEC Tournament, where she averaged 25 points per game, further solidified her place among the nation’s elite. The national recognition came soon after, with Blakes being named to the 2025 NCAA Freshman All-America Team, and she also received Naismith Freshman of the Year consideration, further highlighting her potential.
Speaking about her achievements, Blakes expressed gratitude toward her teammates and coaching staff. “This has been an incredible journey, and I’m so thankful for the support from my teammates and coaches. It’s a privilege to play at Vanderbilt, and I’m excited for what’s to come. I’m just trying to keep improving and helping this team win as much as we can,” Blakes said after the announcement.
Looking ahead, Blakes is expected to be a central figure for Vanderbilt in the upcoming seasons. Her combination of scoring ability, poise under pressure, and leadership skills makes her a candidate for national player of the year honors as she continues to develop. The sky seems to be the limit for this young star, who is already being touted as a future WNBA prospect.
With Blakes leading the way, Vanderbilt’s future in women’s basketball looks incredibly bright. Fans are eager to see how the Commodores will fare in the 2025 NCAA Tournament, with many hoping that Blakes can carry the team to new heights in her debut postseason appearance. As the season progresses, one thing is clear: Mikayla Blakes is a name that college basketball fans will be hearing for years to come.