""From academic engagement and cultural immersion to shared worship and athletics, this journey offers a profound opportunity to grow in mind, body and spirit," said the Rev. Peter Donohue, Villanova's school president."
"The schools said Pope Leo XIV, an Augustinian friar and Villanova alumnus, was the inspiration for scheduling the game."
"College teams playing overseas is expected to become more common amid a growing influx of international talent."
"NCAA data shows the number of international players on D-I rosters (888) has more than doubled since 2010."
Notre Dame and Villanova will open their basketball season with a doubleheader in Rome on Nov. 1. The event aims to celebrate the schools' shared mission and heritage, featuring special programming that integrates academics, athletics, and spirituality. Attendees will participate in a shared Mass at St. Peter's Basilica, a papal audience, and private tours of the Vatican Museums. The initiative reflects a trend of college teams playing overseas, with a significant increase in international players in NCAA basketball.
Read at ESPN.com
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