Notre Dame, Villanova Basketball Teams to Meet Pope in Rome Next Season
The Villanova and Notre Dame basketball teams are set to embark on a significant trip to Rome next season. Both men’s and women’s teams will partake in a doubleheader scheduled for November 1, 2025. This event is particularly special, as it honors Pope Leo XIV, a Villanova alumnus and the first American Pope.
Event Details
The scheduled games will feature the Villanova Wildcats and Notre Dame Fighting Irish. The men’s game is slated to begin at 9:30 a.m. ET and will be broadcast on Fox. Following that, the women’s matchup is set to kick off at noon ET on FS1.
- Date: November 1, 2025
- Men’s Game Time: 9:30 a.m. ET
- Women’s Game Time: 12:00 p.m. ET
- Broadcast: Men’s game on Fox; Women’s game on FS1
Significance of the Trip
This trip represents more than just a series of basketball matches. It serves to celebrate the shared Catholic mission of both universities while also recognizing the historic election of Pope Leo XIV in May 2025.
Prior to the games, both teams will have the opportunity to meet Pope Leo XIV and participate in a communal Mass at St. Peter’s Basilica. These events will not only highlight their athletic endeavors but also strengthen the spiritual bond shared by the institutions.
Pope Leo XIV: A Brief Background
Pope Leo XIV, born Robert Prevost in Chicago, graduated from Villanova University in 1977 with a degree in mathematics. After completing his studies, he joined the Order of Saint Augustine, which connects both Villanova and Merrimack, the only two Augustinian universities in the United States.
His election as Pope has thrilled the Villanova community. Students and faculty gathered in the on-campus chapel to celebrate his election, reminiscing about their past connections with him, fondly referring to him as “Bob.”
With the basketball teams visiting Rome, Pope Leo XIV will welcome his alma mater and its rival in a unique celebration of sports, faith, and community.
