Tom Thibodeau, the coach of the Knicks, doesn’t think that the new Pope signifies a championship path for his team.
Nonetheless, he acknowledges that Robert Francis Pribust Cardinal, a Chicago native and Villanova alumnus, has made history as the first pope from the United States.
“Yeah, now they can be forgiven for their guilt,” the Knicks coach quipped.
Jalen Branson, the star guard, who notably led the Celtics to a 2-0 series advantage in the Eastern Conference semi-finals, expressed his excitement upon hearing the news.
“It’s really cool. I’m happy you’ve realized it’s a good school,” said Branson, who celebrated two national championships during his time at Villanova.
Branson had never met the new Pope and was unaware he was even a candidate.
“I knew I was focusing on the game on Saturday,” Branson noted. “It’s really cool for him, and I’m very happy for him, but I’m focused right now.”
