Villanova and Notre Dame to Open 2026-27 Season in Rome

The two powerhouse teams will face off in a historic doubleheader, with the blessing of Pope Leo XIV.

Apr. 11, 2026 at 4:58am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A cubist-style painting depicting a college basketball game between Villanova and Notre Dame, with the players' movements and the energy of the game captured through sharp, overlapping geometric planes. The iconic dome of St. Peter's Basilica is visible in the background, conceptually representing the global significance of the event.The historic first-ever college basketball season opener between Villanova and Notre Dame in Rome promises to be a vibrant, global celebration of the sport.Notre Dame Today

Villanova and Notre Dame are set to make history by opening the 2026-27 college basketball season with a doubleheader in Rome, Italy on November 1st. The NCAA has granted a special waiver to allow the teams to start their season a day early, with the games set to air on Fox and Fox Sports 1. The event has the backing of Pope Leo XIV, who has strong ties to both universities.

Why it matters

This will mark the first time a men's Division I basketball team has opened a season on foreign soil, making it a significant moment for college basketball and Italian sports. The international showdown also highlights the growing global reach of the sport and the influence of the Catholic Church in shaping these types of events.

The details

Villanova's men's team, led by coach Kevin Willard, has won three national titles and made seven Final Four appearances, most recently in 2022. Notre Dame's women's team, under the guidance of head coach Niele Ivey, has won two national championships and made nine Final Four appearances since 2020. The doubleheader will take place at the Palazzetto dello Sport, a 3,500-seat arena that has undergone renovations since 2018.

  • The doubleheader will take place on Sunday, November 1, 2026.
  • The official 2026-27 college basketball season begins on Monday, November 2, 2026.

The players

Villanova Wildcats

A college basketball team with a storied history, having won three national titles and made seven Final Four appearances, most recently in 2022.

Notre Dame Fighting Irish

A prominent Catholic institution with a strong basketball program, including a women's team that has won two national championships and made nine Final Four appearances since 2020.

Pope Leo XIV

The current Pope, who has strong ties to both Villanova and Notre Dame and is a known sports enthusiast, particularly with regards to Notre Dame.

Kevin Willard

The head coach of the Villanova men's basketball team.

Niele Ivey

The head coach of the Notre Dame women's basketball team.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for our players to experience the rich history and culture of Rome while competing against a top-tier opponent. We're grateful to the NCAA and the Pope for making this happen.”

— Kevin Willard, Head Coach, Villanova Wildcats

“Playing in Rome is a dream come true for our team. We're excited to showcase our talent on the global stage and represent Notre Dame and the Catholic community.”

— Niele Ivey, Head Coach, Notre Dame Fighting Irish

What’s next

The teams and organizers are still finalizing the details, but the expectation is that the doubleheader will become a reality on November 1, 2026.

The takeaway

This historic event showcases the growing international appeal of college basketball and the influence of the Catholic Church in shaping unique sporting experiences. It will provide a valuable cultural and educational opportunity for the student-athletes while also generating excitement for fans around the world.