Vanderbilt Commodores

Are part of the Southeastern Conference (SEC), were established in 1873, and their home arena is Memorial Gymnasium, Vanderbilt University in Nashville, Tennessee.

Intriguing Facts About Vanderbilt Commodores

Vanderbilt’s basketball program, a beacon of tradition and innovation, boasts several lesser-known but remarkable facts. Established in 1900, it is among the oldest in the Southeast, illustrating a rich heritage. The program’s home, the Memorial Gymnasium, is famed for its unique raised floor design, which creates a distinctive home-court advantage and an intimidating atmosphere for visiting teams. Notably, Vanderbilt balances athletic excellence with academic integrity, consistently achieving high graduation rates among players. In the 1960s, the Commodores were at the forefront of adopting the fast-break offense, revolutionizing the pace of the game. Moreover, Vanderbilt’s early initiative in recruiting international players significantly contributed to diversifying and enriching college basketball.

The Historical Tapestry of Vanderbilt Commodores

The origins of Vanderbilt basketball date back to the early 20th century, marking the commencement of a journey that has seen the team evolve from regional contenders to national competitors. The post-World War II era marked the beginning of Vanderbilt’s ascent to national prominence, laying the groundwork for future success. The 1960s were particularly transformative, characterized by an embrace of dynamic playstyles and strategic innovations. This period saw the Commodores establish themselves as a force in collegiate basketball, gaining recognition and respect across the nation.

The Golden Era

The 1990s, under the stewardship of Coach Eddie Fogler, are often celebrated as the golden era of Vanderbilt basketball. Fogler’s coaching philosophy, centered on a robust defense and an efficient, disciplined offense, propelled the team to new heights. This era was marked by several NCAA tournament appearances and significant victories. Key players from this period, such as Billy McCaffrey and Dan Langhi, became emblematic of Vanderbilt’s basketball excellence. Their skill and dedication on the court led to multiple SEC regular season titles and left an indelible mark on the program.

Legendary Figures in Vanderbilt Commodores History

Vanderbilt’s rich history is adorned with legendary figures who have left an indelible impact on the program. Clyde Lee, a dominant force in the 1960s, was renowned for his exceptional rebounding skills. Jeff Turner, a star of the 1980s, went on to a successful professional career in the NBA. Coach Eddie Fogler, the architect of the 1990s golden era, is revered for leading the team to multiple NCAA tournament appearances and for instilling a culture of discipline and excellence.

A Game to Remember

Among the many memorable games in Commodores history, the victory against the top-ranked Kentucky Wildcats in 1993 stands out. This game, characterized by strategic ingenuity and extraordinary team effort, not only secured a significant victory but also solidified Vanderbilt’s stature in collegiate basketball. The game’s high-stakes atmosphere and the team’s remarkable performance left an enduring legacy and became a source of pride for Vanderbilt fans.

Vanderbilt Commodores 2024 Schedule

Regular Season

Week	Date	Opponent	Result
Week 1	Date: Tue 07/11/2023	Opponent: Presbyterian Blue Hose	Result: L 62-68
Week 1	Date: Fri 10/11/2023	Opponent: South Carolina Upstate Spartans	Result: W 74-67
Week 2	Date: Tue 14/11/2023	Opponent: UNC Greensboro Spartans	Result: W 74-70
Week 2	Date: Fri 17/11/2023	Opponent: Central Arkansas Bears	Result: W 75-71
Week 3	Date: Thu 23/11/2023	Opponent: NC State Wolfpack	Result: L 78-84
Week 3	Date: Fri 24/11/2023	Opponent: Arizona State Sun Devils	Result: L 67-82
Week 4	Date: Wed 29/11/2023	Opponent: Boston College Eagles	Result: L 62-80
Week 4	Date: Sat 02/12/2023	Opponent: Alabama A&M Bulldogs	Result: W 78-59
Week 5	Date: Wed 06/12/2023	Opponent: San Francisco Dons	Result: L 60-73
Week 6	Date: Sat 16/12/2023	Opponent: Texas Tech Red Raiders	Result: L 54-76
Week 7	Date: Tue 19/12/2023	Opponent: Western Carolina Catamounts	Result: L 62-63
Week 7	Date: Sat 23/12/2023	Opponent: Memphis Tigers	Result: L 75-77
Week 8	Date: Sat 30/12/2023	Opponent: Dartmouth Big Green	Result: W 69-53
Week 9	Date: Sat 06/01/2024	Opponent: Alabama Crimson Tide	Result: L 75-78
Week 10	Date: Tue 09/01/2024	Opponent: Louisiana State Tigers	Result: L 69-77
Week 10	Date: Sat 13/01/2024	Opponent: Mississippi Rebels	Result: L 56-69
Week 11	Date: Wed 17/01/2024	Opponent: Auburn Tigers	Result: L 65-80
Week 11	Date: Sat 20/01/2024	Opponent: Mississippi State Bulldogs	Result: L 55-68
Week 12	Date: Sat 27/01/2024	Opponent: Tennessee Volunteers	Result: L 62-75
Week 13	Date: Wed 31/01/2024	Opponent: Auburn Tigers	Result: L 54-81
Week 13	Date: Sat 03/02/2024	Opponent: Missouri Tigers	Result: W 68-61
Week 14	Date: Tue 06/02/2024	Opponent: Kentucky Wildcats	Result: L 77-109
Week 14	Date: Sat 10/02/2024	Opponent: South Carolina Gamecocks	Result: L 60-75
Week 15	Date: Tue 13/02/2024	Opponent: Texas A&M Aggies	Result: W 74-73
Week 15	Date: Sat 17/02/2024	Opponent: Tennessee Volunteers	Result: L 53-88
Week 16	Date: Wed 21/02/2024	Opponent: Georgia Bulldogs	Result: L 64-76
Week 16	Date: Sat 24/02/2024	Opponent: Florida Gators	Result: L 64-77
Week 17	Date: Tue 27/02/2024	Opponent: Arkansas Razorbacks	Result: W 85-82
Week 17	Date: Sat 02/03/2024	Opponent: Louisiana State Tigers	Result: L 61-75
Week 18	Date: Wed 06/03/2024	Opponent: Kentucky Wildcats	Result: L 77-93
Week 18	Date: Sat 09/03/2024	Opponent: Florida Gators	Result: W 79-78

Post Season

Week	Date	Opponent	Result
Conf. Tournament	Date: Wed 13/03/2024	Opponent: Arkansas Razorbacks	Result: L 85-90

Home of Vanderbilt Commodores: Memorial Gymnasium

The Memorial Gymnasium, the venerable home of the Commodores, is more than just a basketball venue; it is a symbol of the team’s history and spirit. Opened in 1952, the gymnasium is renowned for its distinctive design, including the famed raised court. The unique architecture creates a one-of-a-kind atmosphere, revered by Commodores fans and feared by opponents. This historic venue has witnessed countless memorable moments and remains a bastion of Vanderbilt’s basketball legacy.