Basketball and a Pontiff: Notre Dame and Villanova’s Historic Rome Matchup

Notre Dame women’s basketball coach Niele Ivey was excited when she learned about a unique international opportunity. Inspired by the election of Pope Leo XIV, event organizers planned basketball games in Rome. Villanova and Notre Dame, two renowned Catholic universities, would face each other. The event carried the promise of an audience with the pope and offered players life-changing experiences.

Notre Dame’s team, ranked No. 13 by the Associated Press, is led by senior guard Hannah Hidalgo. Ivey saw this event as a chance to challenge her team and expose her players to new cultures. “Being at Notre Dame is more than basketball,” she noted. The chance to visit the Vatican and the Colosseum added to the appeal.

Rome’s Tip-Off Event

The Notre Dame and Villanova men’s and women’s teams are set to clash at the Palazzo dello Sport in Rome. Approximately 8,500 fans, mostly Americans, are expected. The men’s game airs at 8:30 a.m. CT and the women’s game at 11 a.m. on FS1.

This idea emerged after Leo’s election in 2025. College basketball producer Steve Scheer and Fox Sports executive Jordan Bazant initiated the concept. Villanova athletic director Eric Roedl supported the match, mentioning it to John Anthony of OnLocation, a sports travel company. Soon, the support grew to include universities, Fox Sports, and basketball events operator Players Era.

“It’s a match made in eternity,” Anthony commented.

Organizers persuaded the NCAA to let them start a day early. Vatican officials coordinated with university presidents to finalize details. It was decided games would be played on November 1, aligning with Vatican approval.

Papal Audience and Health

Pope Leo XIV’s attendance remains uncertain due to recent health concerns. Diagnosed with lung cancer, Leo underwent surgery. He continues to recover and prepares for a South American trip. Scheduled audiences proceed, keeping organizers hopeful for a papal meeting.

“Most importantly, we all pray for his health,” Anthony expressed, appreciative of reports indicating no further treatment is necessary.

Notre Dame’s Ethan Roberts called the experience “a dream come true,” looking forward to potentially meeting Leo. Notre Dame embraced previous international games, ensuring thorough preparation for this one in Rome.

Hidalgo reflected on the journey, feeling “blessed” to play overseas for her freshman and senior seasons. The grand setting and cultural diversity excite her, recalling the different atmosphere in Paris during a prior match.

College Basketball’s New Frontier

The games aim to capture a television audience amidst a packed sports calendar. “It elevates the start of the college basketball season,” Bazant remarked. The event hopes to leave a cultural impact beyond athletic competition.

For CEO Ian Orefice, ensuring meaningful lead-up events each day was crucial. These included welcome receptions and activities, highlighting unity through sports.

For John Anthony, this Rome encounter uniquely combines college sports, culture, and faith. “We’ve hopefully laid the foundation for an annual event,” Orefice anticipated. Yet, for now, the current meeting stands singular and memorable in its scope and significance.