Veteran college basketball broadcaster Bill Raftery may have a unique encounter with Pope Francis during the upcoming college basketball season opener in Rome, according to an Associated Press report. The event, scheduled for late October 2026, marks the first time a major U.S. college basketball game will be played in the Italian capital.
Raftery, known for his colorful commentary, joked that he might steal "a little kiss" of the papal ring if the opportunity arises. The game is part of a series of international exhibitions aimed at growing the sport's global profile. Details on the participating teams and exact date were not disclosed in the initial report.
