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Pope Leo hosts basketball teams from Villanova and Notre Dame in Vatican

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Oct 31, 2026, 1:01 PM

Last updated Oct 31, 2026

Pope Leo hosts basketball teams from Villanova and Notre Dame in Vatican

Summary

Pope Leo received players from Villanova and Notre Dame in the Vatican's Paul VI Audience Hall on October 31. The event precedes a matchup between the two teams, scheduled for Sunday at Rome's Palazzo dello Sport, marking the start of the U.S. college basketball season. The pope highlighted the spirit of sportsmanship, emphasizing camaraderie among rival teams. Villanova is recognized for its Wildcats, while Notre Dame is known for its Fighting Irish. The matchup draws significant attention as both teams prepare to compete.

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By the Numbers

•Pope Leo greeted Villanova and Notre Dame basketball teams in Vatican City.
•The matchup takes place on Sunday at Palazzo dello Sport in Rome.
•The event opens the U.S. college basketball season.
•Pope Leo emphasized sportsmanship and unity among rivals during the gathering.
•Villanova and Notre Dame are both prominent Catholic universities.

Latest Updates

1:01 PMYahoo Sports — Pope Leo tries to stay neutral as basketball rivals descend on Vatican

What they're saying

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VATICAN CITY, Oct 31 (Reuters) - Popes have received heads of state, royalty and pilgrims by the busload in the Vatican's Paul VI Audience Hall.
— Yahoo Sports

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