Pirates Eliminated from BIG EAST Tournament at Hands of Villanova in Semis

Published: Sunday, March 8, 2026

by Ryder Nuesell

UNCASVILLE, C.T. - The Seton Hall Pirates (19-12, 12-9) lost to the Villanova Wildcats (25-6, 17-4) for the third time of the 2025-26 season on Sunday by a score of 62-48, this time eliminating them from the BIG EAST Tournament.

It was an underwhelming offensive performance, especially compared to Saturday’s quarterfinal victory over St. John’s, as the Pirates shot just 17-52 (33%). However, the poor scoring ability was not due to lack of opportunity, as the story of the night was missed shots on open looks for Seton Hall.

Entering the game, the injury bug was already a main storyline to encapsulate their season. After Sunday’s game, the issue only worsened for the Pirates.

Mariana Valenzuela, who was in and out of the quarterfinal game due to lingering leg issues, was held scoreless throughout the night. The injury was clearly bothering her, as she was not playing at her usual intensity.

Additionally, Savannah Catalon, who fractured an orbital bone above her eye in the regular season finale against Butler and has been playing with a facemask, scored just three points on free throws in the third quarter.

There was no true standout performer on the offensive end for Seton Hall, prohibiting their ability to keep up with the Wildcats. After a 12-0 Villanova run to start the game, the Pirates were never able to pull within single digits, although they did get close.

Overall, the Pirates showed grit and determination, as they have all season long, but were simply unable to get it done on the offensive side of the ball.

Seton Hall will await an invite to the WBIT in hopes of their season continuing, as Villanova will prolong their stay at Mohegan Sun to face UConn in the BIG EAST Championship game on Monday at 7:00 P.M.

 

Ryder Nuesell is an Assistant Sports Director at 89.5 WSOU and can be reached at ryder.nuesell@student.shu.edu 

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