Pope Leo XIV Jokes He 'Doesn't Take Sides' in Video Ahead of Villanova's MCBB Game vs. Notre Dame

Pope Leo XIV is officially taking a neutral stance on Villanova and Notre Dame's season opener in Rome despite his connection to the Wildcats.

The Pope referenced his past, during which he was born Robert Prevost and grew up in Chicago before graduating from Villanova, while addressing athletes from both schools Saturday in Vatican City.

"Growing up on the South Side of Chicago, we oftentimes heard, 'Go Irish!" Pope Leo said. "But, as you all know, Prevost graduated from Villanova.

"So, the Pope doesn't take sides. Prevost has another opinion, but we won't do that now."

Pope Leo, the first American-born Pope, was elected in May 2025.

Villanova and Notre Dame are set to start what has been dubbed the Eternal City Tip-Off Sunday morning with a men's game at 9:30 a.m. ET followed by a women's matchup at 12 p.m. ET. The games will air on Fox and FS1, respectively.