Ahead of Rome tipoff, basketball powerhouse Villanova embraces 'Pope Leo effect'

AI Summary

Villanova's basketball program is connecting its Rome visit with the university's ties to the Vatican and Pope Leo XIV, a famed alumnus. The team is set to tip off in Rome amid growing attention to the so-called “Pope Leo effect.”

(AP) — At Villanova University, all roads — or at least many of them — seem to lead to Rome, thanks to famed alumnus Pope Leo XIV and the school's growing ties to the Vatican. Even its vaunted basketball program is getting in on the act.