Notre Dame to Face Villanova in Rome Showdown

The matchup pits the alma mater of Pope Leo XIV against one of college basketball's most prominent Catholic programs.

Published on Feb. 10, 2026

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The NCAA has granted a special exception to allow Notre Dame and Villanova to open the 2026-27 college basketball season with a high-profile matchup in Rome on November 1st. The game will be a doubleheader featuring both the men's and women's teams from the two schools, with Fox set to broadcast the contests.

Why it matters

This unique matchup between Notre Dame, one of the most recognizable Catholic college athletic programs, and Villanova, the alma mater of the current Pope Leo XIV, creates a compelling storyline and international showcase for college basketball.

The details

The game will take place at the Palazzetto dello Sport, a 3,500-seat arena in Rome. Villanova and Notre Dame have been working for months to arrange the early-season game, which will lead into the NFL's Sunday slate on Fox in the United States.

  • The game is scheduled for Sunday, November 1, 2026.
  • The NCAA approved a waiver in January 2026 to allow the early-season matchup.

The players

Notre Dame

One of the most prominent Catholic college athletic programs in the United States.

Villanova

The alma mater of the current Pope Leo XIV, a noted sports fan.

Pope Leo XIV

The current Pope, who is a Villanova alumnus.

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What’s next

The final details of the game, including broadcast information and logistics, are still being worked out by Notre Dame and Villanova.

The takeaway

This unique matchup between two prominent Catholic college basketball programs, with the added connection to the current Pope, represents an exciting opportunity to showcase the sport on an international stage and create a memorable season-opening event.