In a game that was supposed to be played in the SJB Pavilion but got bumped to Memorial Gym because of the aftermath from Ice Storm Fern still messing with Oxford, Ole Miss gave everything it had but fell just short, dropping a tough 71-68 decision to No. 18 Vanderbilt on Saturday night.
The Rebels hung tough throughout, refusing to let the Commodores pull away for good despite trailing by double digits at points in the second half. Vanderbilt controlled much of the tempo early, taking a 31-23 lead into halftime behind balanced scoring and some sharp perimeter work that kept the Rebels’ defense scrambling.
The Commodores stretched the advantage to 15 midway through the second half, feeding off turnovers and a couple of momentum-swinging plays. But this Ole Miss team, led by head coach Chris Beard has shown fight all season, and they weren’t about to go quietly. The Rebels clawed back with better ball movement, tougher defense, and some big shots, slicing the lead down to a single possession in the closing minute.
Ole Miss had a real shot to tie or take the lead in the final seconds thanks to a defensive stop followed by a quick push up the floor set up a couple of looks from deep; but the tying attempts rimmed out, and Vanderbilt held on at the line to seal it.
Malik Dia led the charge for the Rebels with 16 points, attacking the rim and battling on the glass. The second-half surge saw the Rebels outscore Vanderbilt 45-40 after the break, a testament to the effort and adjustments, but the early deficit left too much ground to make up completely.
The loss moves Ole Miss to 11-10 overall and 3-5 in league play, with a brutal road stretch ahead including trips to Tennessee and Texas looming.
The Rebels now shift their focus to Knoxville for a Tuesday night clash with the Tennessee Volunteers. Tip-off is set for 6 p.m. CT. As always, stay locked in right here for the latest on all things about your Ole Miss Rebels.
