St. John's Red Storm: Mariyah Noel's Double-Double Not Enough in Loss to Xavier, February 5, 2026, at Carnesecca Arena

Queens, NY – St. John's University women's basketball team faced a tough challenge at home, suffering a 71-52 setback against Xavier on Wednesday, February 5, 2026, at Carnesecca Arena. Despite a standout performance from senior forward Mariyah Noel, who recorded an impressive game-high 20 points and 11 rebounds for her sixth double-double of the season, the Red Storm couldn't overcome the Musketeers' strong offensive surge.

The game, a key Big East conference matchup, drew local fans from across Queens, including many residents who regularly traverse Cross Bay Boulevard. St. John's, a prominent institution in the borough, often garners significant community interest, and their athletic events are a source of local pride. The team's performance, even in a loss, generates discussion in local diners and community centers along the Cross Bay corridor.

Game Highlights and Team Performance

Xavier established an early lead and maintained control throughout the game, demonstrating efficient shooting and solid defensive play. The Red Storm struggled to find a consistent offensive rhythm, particularly from beyond the arc. While Noel was a force in the paint, her efforts were not enough to spark a full comeback. St. John's battled hard, showing resilience in the second half, but the deficit proved too large to overcome.

Coach Joe Tartamella acknowledged the team's effort but noted areas for improvement. "Mariyah played exceptionally well tonight, giving us a tremendous boost on both ends of the floor," Tartamella stated in a post-game press conference. "We need to be more consistent as a unit, particularly with our shooting percentages, and continue to work on our defensive execution. We know our fans, many of whom come from areas like Howard Beach and Ozone Park via Cross Bay Boulevard, expect our best, and we'll strive to deliver that in future games."

Looking Ahead: Local Impact and Future Games

The loss marks a challenging point in the Red Storm's Big East campaign, but the team still has several opportunities to rebound. Upcoming games will be crucial for their standing, and local support will be essential. Residents along Cross Bay Boulevard often follow St. John's sports avidly, celebrating their victories and offering encouragement after defeats. The university's presence in Queens contributes significantly to the local economy and cultural landscape, extending its influence beyond the campus to neighborhoods throughout the borough.

Fans are encouraged to attend future home games at Carnesecca Arena to show their support. The Red Storm's next home game offers another chance to see top-tier collegiate basketball right here in Queens. Information about tickets and schedules can be found on the St. John's Athletics website. Local businesses along Cross Bay Boulevard often see increased patronage on game days, benefiting from the influx of fans and visitors to the area, highlighting the interconnectedness of local sports and community commerce.

Key Points:

• St. John's women's basketball lost 71-52 to Xavier on February 5, 2026, at Carnesecca Arena.
• Mariyah Noel recorded a game-high 20 points and 11 rebounds for St. John's.
• The game was a Big East conference matchup, drawing local interest from Queens residents.
• Coach Joe Tartamella highlighted Noel's performance but stressed team consistency.
• Local fans along Cross Bay Boulevard are encouraged to support future home games.
• St. John's athletics contribute to Queens' local pride and economy.