Vanderbilt’s Chandler Bing has been making headlines lately, but he wants to set the record straight – he wasn’t named after the character from the hit TV show “Friends.” Despite his assurances, the jokes have been pouring in since he announced his decision to attend the Nashville school.
In an interview with the Tennessean, Bing revealed that his parents weren’t even thinking about the show when they named him. While his mom has seen “Friends,” it wasn’t a factor in his name selection. Although he’s heard plenty of jokes related to the show, Bing takes it all in stride, acknowledging that it’s just part of the fun.
Interestingly, Bing admitted that he hasn’t actually watched “Friends,” but he’s prepared for the inevitable jokes that come with his name. He chose Vanderbilt because he wanted to compete at a high level in the SEC and grow both on and off the court. The campus, facilities, and city all played a role in his decision-making process.
Vanderbilt is also home to a talented women’s basketball team, with players like Mikayla Blakes and Khamil Pierre leading the charge. Recently, Blakes, Pierre, and Justine Pissott participated in the 2025 USA Basketball 3X Nationals, showcasing their skills and representing Vanderbilt on a national stage.
The event featured 16 teams vying for a 3×3 championship and a chance to earn a spot on the USA Basketball national team. Teams from various universities participated, including Fairfield, Florida, James Madison, and more. Blakes, Pierre, and Pissott have been instrumental in Vanderbilt’s success, helping the team achieve a second-straight 20-win season and a March Madness tournament appearance.
Blakes, in particular, had an outstanding season, averaging 23.3 points per game and earning accolades such as the USBWA Tamika Catchings National Freshman of the Year and SEC Freshman of the Year. Pierre also made a significant impact, averaging 20.4 points per game and receiving recognition as a WBCA All-American honorable mention.
As female athletes continue to shine in the college sports world, players like Blakes, Pierre, and Pissott are setting a new standard for excellence. Their dedication and talent have not gone unnoticed, and they are inspiring a new generation of athletes to reach for the stars.
Overall, Vanderbilt’s basketball program is thriving, with both the men’s and women’s teams making their mark on the national stage. With players like Chandler Bing leading the way, the future looks bright for Commodores basketball.
