Buffalo, NY, October 31, 2026 — Pope Leo XIV recently convened with the men’s and women’s basketball teams from Villanova University and the University of Notre Dame. The gathering took place in Vatican City, setting the stage for the upcoming “Eternal City Tip-Off” event, which marks the start of the teams’ season.

During the papal audience, Pope Leo XIV addressed the athletes with a lighthearted remark concerning the impending game between Villanova, his alma mater, and Notre Dame. He humorously declared his neutrality regarding the outcome of the matchup. However, he also playfully alluded to his former identity as Robert Prevost, suggesting that this past self might hold a different perspective on the game.

The meeting provided a unique moment for the student-athletes, bringing together representatives from both universities with the head of the Catholic Church in a significant setting. The anticipation for the season opener, branded as the “Eternal City Tip-Off,” was palpable as the teams prepared for their games in Rome.

Details regarding the specific date of the papal audience or the exact date of the season opener game were not provided in the summary. Information about the specific teams present beyond the general mention of men’s and women’s basketball for both Villanova and Notre Dame was also not detailed.


Story summarized from the original created by AP via Scripps News Group on www.wkbw.com, see more information here.

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