Aaron Nesmith, the freshman, showcased his talent with an impressive performance of 20 points and approximately 13 rebounds. However, Vanderbilt faced their initial game without their standout point guard, Darius Garland, on Tuesday night, defeating Savannah State 120-85. This marked one of the highest scoring games for the Commodores (5-1) since their record-breaking game in 1970 against Ole Miss where they scored around 130 points.
Freshman Garland has been averaging 16.2 points per game, but unfortunately, he sustained a season-ending knee injury in Friday’s loss to Kent State. Garland was a projected lottery pick in the upcoming NBA draft and underwent surgery for a torn meniscus in his left knee on Monday.
Simi Shittu and Garland were key members of Vanderbilt’s highly touted recruiting class in school history. Both players were five-star prospects and McDonald’s All-Americans in their last high school season. In a lineup adjustment, 6’8’ forward and junior Clevon Brown blocked four shots and earned a spot in the starting lineup.
Saben Lee transitioned from shooting guard to point guard, while freshman Shittu took on a more significant role, contributing 17 points and five assists. Transfer student Yanni Wetzell from Division II St. Mary in Texas made a noteworthy impact off the bench with 15 points. Eight Commodores reached double figures, including Maxwell Evans, who scored 16 points.
