Mikayla Blakes scores 53, breaks NCAA freshman record

Vanderbilt freshman Mikayla Blakes made history by scoring a record-breaking 53 points in a 99-86 victory over Florida, surpassing the previous NCAA single-game scoring record for freshmen set by USC's JuJu Watkins at 51 points. Blakes shot 67% from the field and became the only Division I player to score at least 50 points in a game this season. Her impressive performance included 16 field goals and 16 free throws, contributing to her team's four-game winning streak and a current ranking of No. 23. Coach Shea Ralph praised Blakes, stating it was one of the most incredible performances he has witnessed in his coaching career. The Commodores, now 18-4 overall and 5-3 in the SEC, look to extend their success against Ole Miss on Sunday. Blakes' achievement has sparked significant fan reaction and solidified her status as a rising star in college basketball.