In an SEC Basketball league that’s been as good as any in recent history, one of those teams responsible for its success is Vanderbilt Basketball. Under head coach Mark Byington, the Commodores are coming off a 27-win season, making it to the NCAA Tournament Round of 32.
After a successful offseason that included one massive news announcement, Vanderbilt is set to be ranked in the preseason for the 2026-27 campaign. They’re one of the first programs to have a public preseason game, playing Virginia in an exhibition battle on Sunday. Here are some key storylines to watch for the 2026-27 campaign.
1. Taking advantage of Tyler Tanner’s return
One of the big breakout stars from last season was Tanner, an All-SEC player who led Vanderbilt with 19.5 ppg and 5.1 apg. The star guard was in the NBA Draft process but elected to come back for his junior year. If he has an even bigger season, Tanner could very well go pro, making this an important season for the program. It’s rare for Vanderbilt to have one of the top players in the SEC, so a Sweet 16 appearance should be the goal for 2026-27.
2. Talented incoming recruiting class
Coach Mark Byington is looking to make the Commodores more than just Tanner going forward, having a top-25 incoming recruiting class. They’re led by top-30 wing prospect Gabe Nesmith, one of the highest-ranked players to join the program out of high school. Top-50 guard/forward Ethan Mgbako is another long-term prospect to watch. The supporting cast for Tanner is completely different and there is plenty of playing time available. Look for these freshmen to have a real shot at being in the rotation and having an immediate impact.
3. Looking for Vandy’s second-best player
Last season, Duke Miles (16.1 ppg and 4.5 apg) was the team’s second-leading scorer (missed 10 games due to injury), while Tyler Nickel (13.5 ppg) was the other double-digit scorer. Both players are gone, with a five-man transfer class coming in. Ace Glass averaged 16.4 ppg as a freshman at Washington State, while Bangot Dak put up 11.5 ppg and 6.5 rpg at Colorado as a junior forward. Sebastian Williams-Adams (7.0 ppg at Auburn) is a breakout candidate to watch as a former top-50 prospect who showed some upside.
Vanderbilt Basketball has a big floor with Tanner on board but its ceiling will be determined by how good the supporting cast ends up being.
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