Undefeated Vanderbilt Set for Showdown With Michigan in Newark NEWARK, N.J. (Interstat) — The nation’s only remaining undefeated team in women’s Division I basketball puts its perfect record on the line Monday when Vanderbilt faces Michigan in a marquee non-conference clash at the Fleisher Athletic Center. The Commodores (18-0), soaring atop the polls, arrive with a target on their backs and the dynamic play of guard Mikayla Blakes fueling their run. Blakes is averaging 28.7 points over her last six games, including a 38-point, 7-assist performance in an 89-84 road win at Mississippi State on Thursday. Vanderbilt’s high-octane offense has scored 88 or more points in five of its last seven contests. The eighth-ranked Wolverines (15-2), whose only losses came on the road at Washington and in double-overtime at Oregon, present the most formidable challenge yet for Vanderbilt. Michigan, led by guard Olivia Olson’s consistent scoring, has won four straight since the loss to the Huskies. Olson has scored 21 points in three of her last four outings, including in an 85-69 victory over Illinois on Thursday. This neutral-site game in Newark serves as a critical resume builder for both programs ahead of conference play. Vanderbilt, which has navigated a tough Southeastern Conference start with wins over LSU and at Arkansas, will rely on its potent offense. Michigan, a force in the Big Ten, will counter with a balanced attack that features four players averaging double figures. The matchup in the backcourt between Blakes and Olson is the headline, but depth will be pivotal. Vanderbilt’s Sacha Washington and Justine Pissott provide interior and perimeter support, respectively. Michigan’s Te’Yala Delfosse and Mila Holloway have been key contributors during the team’s winning streak. Tipoff is set for 7 p.m. EST Monday. For Vanderbilt, it’s a chance to solidify its ranking. For Michigan, it’s an opportunity to hand the Commodores their first loss and stake a claim as a national title contender.