ESPN News Services

Nov 1, 2026, 12:44 PM ET

Brady Koehler scored key baskets down the stretch and Notre Dame made a late comeback after trailing for most of the second half to beat Villanova 74-72 in the men's college basketball season opener in Rome on Sunday.

Villanova standout Tyler Perkins fouled out with 16.3 seconds to go. He led the Wildcats with 18 points.

The event -- dubbed the Eternal City Tip-Off -- included an audience with Villanova alumnus Pope Leo XIV for both teams and their fans Saturday.

"I've been a part of some really cool things, and this is right at the top of the list of experiences," Notre Dame coach Micah Shrewsberry said.…