October 30, 2026 - 2:04 pm

The 2026-27 college basketball season begins in the region where Villanova’s most famous alumnus resides.

Although Pope Leo XIV is not expected to attend, Notre Dame and Villanova will tip off the campaign at Palazzo dello Sport in Rome, Italy, fittingly on All Saints’ Day. There is hope that the pope will hold a special private service on Saturday for the teams and fans who made the trip, but recent health issues and treatment could interfere with those plans.

VSiN’s 2026-27 College Basketball Betting Guide is one of the best ways to prepare for the season and save time researching transfer portal additions and coaching changes because that work has already been done for you. Be sure to check out the guide, along with VSiN’s college basketball tools, betting splits and more.

6:30 a.m. Sunday, Fox

Based on the betting line, it will be difficult for the Fighting Irish to open the season with a victory.…