Villanova University and the University of Notre Dame will host a basketball doubleheader in Rome, Italy, on November 1, 2026, marking the start of the 2026-27 NCAA basketball season. This unique event celebrates both institutions’ Catholic heritage through a blend of sports, education, and spirituality, with special programming and activities planned for participants. Both men's and women's games will air nationally, providing an international platform for athletics while enriching the students' cultural experience.

By the Numbers
  • Men's game at 9:30 a.m. ET on FOX
  • Women's game at 12 p.m. ET on FS1
State of Play
  • The event will include a reception overlooking Rome, a shared Mass at St. Peter's Basilica, and a planned audience with Pope Leo XIV.
  • Participants can engage in private tours of the Vatican Museum and other cultural excursions.
What's Next

Details about the specific game location and travel packages will be announced as plans evolve. The institutions expect significant interest from alumni and potential attendees wanting to experience this historic event.

Bottom Line

The Rome basketball tip-off not only promotes athletic excellence but also reinforces the commitment to community and spiritual engagement within Catholic education, forming a unique opportunity for student-athletes and their communities.