Villanova, Pope Leo XIV's Alma Mater, To Play Notre Dame in Rome Next Season

Anything is possible in college hoops when you have a sports-loving Pope. 

Villanova basketball will open next season overseas, with both the men’s and women’s teams set to tip off 2026–27 in Rome against Notre Dame in a duel of Catholic schools.

BREAKING: Villanova & Notre Dame's basketball teams are lined up to tip CBB's 2026-27 season in Rome, sources told @CBSSports.

The NCAA has given special clearance.

Pope Leo XIV is famously a Villanova alum. Holy hoops!

Details⤵️ https://t.co/KOnmh7tUrR

— Matt Norlander (@MattNorlander) February 11, 2026

The Pope's attendance became the immediate topic of discussion, since Pope Leo XIV holds a degree from Villanova University. 

The new Pope has a degree in mathematics from Villanova University.

This guy doesn’t just understand sin. He understands cos.

— Deedy (@deedydas) May 8, 2025

Now, the online discourse has shifted to whether or not Pope Leo XIV will attend the game. 

If Villanova flies 5000 miles to play a basketball game in the Pope’s backyard, and he doesn’t go, his degree should be revoked. https://t.co/dnXKUD5Y4m

— Sam Federman (@Sam_Federman) February 11, 2026

Pope Leo suiting up for Villanova like https://t.co/xZiB0KKC2u pic.twitter.com/3UKFvmb1h5

— Good College Basketball Takes (@goodhoopstakes) February 11, 2026

We are going to get the Pope at a college basketball game next season. https://t.co/SVIhUs1vvM pic.twitter.com/C5BzIUaZMv

— RedditCFB (@RedditCFB) February 11, 2026

Will Villanova’s most famous alumnus make a divine appearance in Rome to cheer on the Wildcats?