Spike Lee among Knicks fans excited about selection of Pope Leo XIV for a particular reason

Pope Leo XIV has stirred a surprising wave of sports-related optimism, especially in the United States. While his election was celebrated around the globe, it struck a particular chord in America, as he was born in Chicago. But for New York Knicks fans, including filmmaker Spike Lee, there’s an even more personal reason to celebrate.

New York is buzzing with hope that the Knicks can finally break through in the NBA Playoffs. Following a big series win over the Boston Celtics, the team looks poised to make a serious run at the Finals. And for some die-hard fans, Pope Leo XIV’s election is being seen as a divine sign of good things to come.

For Spike Lee, the connection is more than symbolic. He believes the Pope’s background, specifically, his education at Villanova University, is a sign of destiny. Villanova is where Knicks stars Jalen Brunson and Mikal Bridges won NCAA championships, and Lee sees that shared alma mater as a powerful omen.

“The Vatican voted in Robert Francis Prevost as their 267th Pontiff. He is the first Pope from the United States of America, born in Chicago, Illinois. And for my New York Knicks fans, his alma mater is Villanova University (Brunson, Hart and Bridges won NCAA rings at Villanova). What a holy blessing,” Lee wrote on Instagram.

Spike Lee attends the 2025 Met Gala Celebrating “Superfine: Tailoring Black Style” at Metropolitan Museum of Art on May 05, 2025 in New York City.

He added: “The Knickerbockers are going to the 2024–2025 NBA World Championship. It is divinity. God bless. And that’s the holy truth.” With that declaration, Lee has made it clear, he believes the Knicks’ championship dreams might just be touched by something greater this season.

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NBA fans react to election of Pope Leo XIV with Villanova and Knicks references

Following the election of Pope Leo XIV, NBA fans took to social media to share their reactions, many of which referenced his ties to Villanova and the New York Knicks. One viral post read: “In 2016, Robert Prevost (now newly named POPE LEO XIV) reposted an article about Jalen Brunson, Josh Hart, Mikal Bridges (and Donte DiVincenzo) leading Villanova to a Championship. The Knicks have the blessing of the Holy Father.” The comment quickly gained traction among basketball fans online.

Another fan wrote on X: “The new Pope, Leo XIV, is a Villanova graduate. It’s meant to be.” Others joined in with similar sentiments, pointing out his connection to current Knicks players: “Pope Leo XIV is the first American Pope. He went to Villanova. Let’s go Knicks.”

Is Pope Leo XIV really connected to the sports world?

The new pontiff’s ties to sports, particularly basketball and baseball, have sparked curiosity online. While speculation continues, Pope Leo XIV has not publicly stated which teams he supports, either in the United States or abroad.

Some reports suggest he might be a Chicago Cubs fan, given his birthplace. Others believe he may follow the Chicago Bulls, especially since he graduated in 1977 and would have witnessed the Michael Jordan era. Though details remain scarce, Pope Leo XIV has expressed interest in sports, recently sharing that he’d like to take up physical activity again.