NASHVILLE, Tenn. — Vanderbilt men’s basketball claimed its fifth-straight win with an 85-55 victory over Austin Peay on Saturday.
Junior Jason Edwards extended his double-digit scoring streak to 39 games, dropping 16 points to lead the Commodores while adding two rebounds and one steal. Junior Devin McGlockton continued his prowess on the glass, collecting nine rebounds to go along with 11 points, two blocks, one assist and a steal. Vanderbilt sophomore Jaylen Carey dished out a career-high four assists while scoring nine points and seven boards.
A slow start offensively saw Vanderbilt holding a 10-6 lead with 13:41 remaining in the first half. The Commodores woke up soon after, generating a 23-3 scoring run to take control of the contest. Graduate AJ Hoggard sparked the scoring, drilling back-to-back threes to push the score to 16-6. Multiple baskets from freshman Tyler Tanner extended Vanderbilt’s lead to 33-9 with 8:59 remaining in the half. The Dores cruised into the break with a 47-20 advantage.
Vanderbilt produced six steals and five blocks in the first half. The Commodores have recorded at least five steals and blocks each in only one other half this season – the first half against Jackson State on Nov. 16. Vanderbilt’s defense entered the contest ranked No. 14 nationally in turnovers generated per possession.
The Governors were led in scoring by LJ Thomas with 20 points. Austin Peay was held to a 35.5% field goal percentage, including 12.5% from three, and forced into 14 turnovers. The Commodores have generated double-digit opponent turnovers in all but one game this season. Vanderbilt moves to 19-1 all-time against Austin Peay, including 16 straight wins in the series.
Vanderbilt (11-1) returns to action Dec. 30 at home against New Orleans (2-8) for the final game ahead of SEC play. The Privateers are 0-1 against SEC opponents this season after a 98-62 loss to Texas on Thursday. Tip-off is set for 7:00 p.m. CT with coverage on SEC Network+.
