Pope Leo 14 Knicks Chances
Pope Leo XIV’s Surprising Sports Allegiances spark Debate
VATICAN CITY (AP) — The election of Pope Leo XIV, the first American pope, has ignited a flurry of speculation and excitement in the sports world, notably in his purported hometown of Chicago. This follows Pope Francis, his predecessor, who openly supported soccer and often used the sport to illustrate teamwork and social cohesion in his teachings. Francis, a known supporter of the Argentine club San Lorenzo, maintained his club membership even after assuming the papacy.
A Pontiff of Many Sports
Cardinal Robert Frevost was elected as the 267th Pope on May 8, taking the name Leo XIV. Unlike his predecessor’s focus on soccer, Leo XIV is reportedly an avid fan of various sports.
Having worked in Peru for over two decades, Leo XIV developed a fondness for tennis. He reportedly said that tennis provided him with “physical outlet and complemented his mental life.” Despite limited opportunities to play since leaving Peru, he expressed eagerness to return to the court.
South American Soccer Ties
While not as fervent as his interest in tennis, Leo XIV also follows soccer, a sport deeply ingrained in Peruvian national identity. Unconfirmed reports from the Peruvian press suggest he supports CD Universidad César Vallejo, based in Trujillo, stemming from his missionary work in the region. Other reports link him to Alianza Lima, one of Peru’s most popular clubs with 25 league titles.
His connections to Rome, Italy, have also fueled speculation that he is a fan of AS roma in Serie A.
Chicago Loyalties: Cubs or White Sox?
The announcement of the first American pope has generated considerable buzz among Chicago sports fans, hopeful that divine intervention might favor their teams. the Chicago Cubs were quick to declare, “Hey chicago, He’s a Cubs Fan!” at Wrigley Field.
However, the Pope’s brother, John Frevost, told WGN News that his brother “was always a fan of the White Sox.” Evidence suggests the Pope watched the first game of the 2005 World Series between the White Sox and the Houston Astros. The white Sox organization expressed their excitement, stating, “I am thrilled to have a White Sox fan in the Vatican,” and announced plans to send the Pope a custom uniform and hat.
‘Nova Knicks’ and a Villanova Connection
Beyond Chicago, fans of the New York Knicks are also celebrating. Pope Leo XIV earned a mathematics degree from Villanova University, a prestigious Catholic institution known for its basketball program, which has produced 56 NBA players.
Knicks fans are particularly eager as Josh Hart, Jalen brunson, and Mikal Bridges, all Villanova alumni, play key roles on the team. The Knicks have even earned the nickname “Nova Knicks” due to the significant Villanova presence.
Will the Knicks Visit the Vatican?
Leo XIV reportedly has fond memories of Villanova’s 2016 NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament victory.Following a precedent set by Pope Francis, who invited the San Lorenzo soccer club to the Vatican, speculation is rife about which sports teams might visit Leo XIV. Villanova’s basketball team is considered a likely candidate. A Knicks visit could also be on the cards if they secure their first NBA championship in 52 years in the 2024-25 season.
Father Robert Heage, a longtime pastor for Villanova’s basketball team, told sports media outlet D A-Stick that “The Pope is highly likely to watch Nova Knicks.” Knicks fans hope that the combination of villanova players and the new Pope might bring the team its first NBA title since 1973, possibly through “divine intervention.”