One of the SEC’s basketball programs is in trouble again, but it’s not just about their performance on the court. What remains clear is that win or lose, the Vanderbilt Commodores’ home crowd always shows up in big numbers, bringing unmatched energy and passion—sometimes even storming the court.

The Commodores pulled off a thrilling upset over No. 9 Kentucky (74-69) on Saturday, improving their record to 16–4. This victory is even more impressive considering the team was picked to finish last in the SEC pre-season poll. Now, they’ve risen to No. 7 in the rankings, showcasing their remarkable turnaround.

However, this wasn’t the craziest thing yet, It was Vanderbilt’s second top-10 win in just a week, and the excitement was clear as students stormed the court, just like they did after the Commodores win over Tennessee a week prior. The energy and celebration were a perfect reflection of the team’s big achievements.

Conference rules may impose fines on schools for storming the court or field, but that hasn’t stopped Vanderbilt. Despite its reputation for academic excellence, the school has become the SEC’s biggest offender when it comes to these spirited celebrations. While this wasn’t the first time the crowd went berserk and stomped on the ground, it certainly added to Vanderbilt’s growing legacy of unforgettable, albeit rule-breaking, moments.

A rather very similar thing happened with the Vanderbilt on the football field, After the Commodores pulled off a historic win against No. 5 Alabama, the celebration came with a price—a $100,000 fine that went to Alabama, as per conference rules. Interestingly, Alabama benefited significantly from these fines, collecting $400,000 during football season alone, with fans storming the field after each of its three losses.

A second offense in the same school year cost the school $250,000, which went to Tennessee. Saturday made the Commodores a third-time offender, resulting in a $500,000 fine, which went to Kentucky. That’s $850,000 in court-storming fines Vanderbilt owes from this academic year so far.

Vanderbilt did try to stop the court-storming. Athletic director Candice Lee was spotted in the student section at Memorial Gymnasium, urging students not to rush the court and reminding them of the financial impact it would have on the athletic department’s recruiting budget. Despite those efforts, the excitement in the gym was clear as the Commodores pulled off a major win.

Vanderbilt shocks No. 9 Kentucky in a nail-biting finish

On January 25, Vanderbilt Men’s Basketball took down its second giant of the season, defeating No. 9 Kentucky at Memorial Gymnasium. The Commodores were once again led by Jason Edwards, who scored 18 points. He received plenty of support from Devin McGlockton (14 points), Tyler Nickel (11 points), and Jaylen Carey (10 points), all contributing double-digit performances in the big win.

“The way we just bounced back from that loss [Alabama] is really proof that our guys are super tough,” Edwards said after the game. “I feel like we can be one of the best teams in the country. We can compete with anybody.” 

With just twenty-four seconds left in the game, Edwards missed his next free throw, and Manon grabbed the rebound but stumbled out of bounds before Byington could call a timeout. That gave Kentucky one last chance, but the Wildcats missed their 3-point attempt. Hoggard secured the rebound and was fouled strategically, heading to the free-throw line. Although he missed his shot, Kentucky couldn’t get another look, and the Commodores held on for a thrilling victory.

Despite the fines and controversy surrounding the court-storming celebrations, the Commodores continue to make waves, both on the court and in the SEC. With their impressive turnaround, they’ve shown they’re not just a team to watch, but one that’s ready to challenge the top contenders and make a statement this season.