Villanova Wildcats are currently leading the Notre Dame Fighting Irish 44–35

ROME — The Villanova Wildcats hold a 44–35 lead over the Notre Dame Fighting Irish early in the second half of the Eternal City Tip-Off at the Palazzo dello Sport.

Villanova

Wildcats Surge Ahead in Historic Opener

Villanova carries momentum into the final stretch after taking a 35–31 halftime advantage. Guard Tyler Perkins has ignited the Wildcats' offense, leading all scorers with 14 points, including a blistering 4-of-7 performance from beyond the arc. Notre Dame remains within striking distance behind sophomore guard Braeden Shrewsberry, who kept the Fighting Irish competitive with 10 first-half points. However, cold shooting from the floor (36.1%) and struggles at the free-throw line (55.6%) have hampered Notre Dame's ability to mount a sustained comeback against Villanova's suffocating perimeter defense.

The 'Pope Leo' Backdrop

The highly anticipated double-header marks the official launch of the 2026–27 NCAA basketball season. The event was organized to honor Pope Leo XIV—the first American-born pope and a 1977 Villanova alumnus—who met with both programs at the Vatican ahead of the game.

Women's Matchup Next

The action in Rome continues immediately following the conclusion of the men's game. The No. 13-ranked Notre Dame women's basketball team is set to face the Villanova women's squad. Tip-off is scheduled for 12:00 PM ET (5:00 PM local time in Rome) and will be broadcast live nationwide on FS1.