The New York Knicks are now just two victories away from their first appearance in the Eastern Conference finals since 2000, having secured wins against the Boston Celtics on the road. There are those who argue that the Knicks have an advantageous matchup against the Celtics this season, while others might attribute it to fate or even divine intervention.

This situation aligns especially well as the new Pope, Leo XIV—who originates from the United States—is a former student of Villanova University, the same institution attended by Knicks stars Jalen Brunson, Josh Hart, and Mikal Bridges.

Knicks head coach Tom Thibodeau was inquired whether the Pope’s affiliation with Villanova might provide his team with any form of assistance, leading to a moment of levity from the usually serious coach. “Now they can be forgiven for their sins,” Thibodeau responded while smiling, as reported by the media on Friday.

The Knicks will be hosting the Celtics for Game 3 on Saturday, with ticket prices starting at $540 on platforms like StubHub.

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