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Sport Extras

10 Teams the New Pope Follows That You Didn’t Expect

Credit: Facebook/Instagram

Pope Leo XIV might be settling into his papal duties in Vatican City, but back in the U.S., fans are digging into his sports past. He’s the first American pope who didn’t leave his fandom behind. Here’s a look at the teams and sports the new pope is rooting for.

Chicago White Sox

Credit: Facebook

Despite early confusion, the pope’s loyalties are firmly stitched into black and white pinstripes. He was raised in the southern suburb of Dolton and grew up rooting for the White Sox. Friends confirm he followed the team through their 2005 World Series run and attended games with fellow South Side loyalists.

Villanova Men’s Basketball

Credit: Facebook

Before Vatican robes, there were Wildcats jerseys. Pope Leo XIV earned his math degree at Villanova and publicly supported the basketball team’s 2016 national title win. He retweeted a celebration post, and NCAA March Madness even joked that Villanova now had official Vatican representation.

St. Rita High School Baseball

Credit: stritahs

This one’s personal. In the ’80s, the pope taught physics and math at St. Rita of Cascia High School in Chicago. In 2014, he supported the school’s baseball team during their championship bid. That connection earned him cheers from students the moment his papacy was announced.

New York Knicks (Sort of)

Credit: Instagram

The pope isn’t known to follow the NBA closely, but Knicks fans claim spiritual support anyway. Why? Because Villanova alumni Jalen Brunson and Josh Hart are key players on the current Knicks roster. Even director Spike Lee joked that the Knicks might be blessed this season.