The Apostolic Palace in Vatican City became an unexpected crossroads of cinema, faith, and basketball on November 15, 2025, when Pope Leo XIV welcomed a select group of international filmmakers for a private gathering. The event drew acclaimed actors, directors, and producers for a thoughtful discussion on how cinema can inspire hope, strengthen community, and reflect the shared human experience. But it was Spike Lee who delivered the moment everyone would remember.
Arriving with his trademark flair, Lee came bearing a gift that perfectly fused his love for filmmaking and his lifelong devotion to the New York Knicks. As Pope Leo XIV wrapped up his address on the modern purpose of cinema, Lee rose from his seat and proudly held up a custom Knicks jersey, number 14, emblazoned with the name “Pope Leo.” The hall erupted in warm laughter and applause as the Pope, visibly amused, accepted the gesture, creating a unique and unforgettable Vatican moment.
Why Spike Lee’s Gift To Pope Leo XIV Matters?
Lee later presented the jersey directly to Pope Leo XIV. Speaking to journalists afterward, he said, “It was a surprise to me that I even got an invitation. I have been to Rome many, many times. But this was the first time in the Vatican City and the first time meeting the Pope. So it was…a great day, a great day.”
The filmmaker had carried the jersey in a simple brown paper bag, pulling it out moments after the Pope concluded his remarks. The moment quickly gained traction online as well. Pope Crave highlighted it in an X post, writing, “(BREAKING) Spike Lee has gifted Pope Leo a custom @nyknicks jersey because he knows ball.”
(BREAKING) Spike Lee has gifted Pope Leo a custom @nyknicks jersey because he knows ball. pic.twitter.com/ziE2pFrkj0
— Pope Crave (@ClubConcrave) November 15, 2025
The number 14 on the jersey was chosen to honor Pope Leo XIV’s title, marking him as the fourteenth pontiff to bear the name. The personalization also tied neatly into Lee’s unwavering devotion to the New York Knicks. When the Chicago-born Robert Prevost was elected as Pope Leo XIV on May 8, 2025, Lee celebrated the news on Instagram, calling the moment a “HOLY BLESSING” for the Knicks.
He half-jokingly hoped the team would benefit from what he saw as a touch of divine support heading into the NBA season. Lee was also mindful of the Pope’s connection to Villanova University, where Leo XIV completed his undergraduate studies.
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The detail wasn’t lost on Knicks fans either, as the current roster features three former Villanova standouts: Jalen Brunson, Mikal Bridges, and Josh Hart. For the pontiff, the gift also blended with his long-standing love of sports. A dedicated supporter of Chicago’s teams during his upbringing in Illinois, he was once even gifted a Chicago Bulls jersey by famed announcer Chuck Swirsky.
Although Lee had hoped the Pope’s election would bring good fortune to the Knicks during the 2024–2025 season, the team ultimately fell to the Indiana Pacers in the Eastern Conference Finals. This year, however, the Knicks appear to be turning the tide with an 8–4 start and a strong second-place position in the Eastern Conference standings.
Spike Lee Predicts Knicks Are Poised for Championship Breakthrough
Lee believes the New York Knicks finally have a clear path to an NBA title this season. With major shifts in the Eastern Conference altering the competitive landscape, his confidence in the team has only grown. The Boston Celtics are without Jayson Tatum, and the Indiana Pacers are missing Tyrese Haliburton, two absences that remove significant threats from New York’s championship chase.
He also echoed the optimism of fellow New York supporter Fat Joe, who recently predicted a championship parade in the city. Lee added, “I’m on board, like my brother from the Bronx, boogie town. This is the year.”
For Lee, the Knicks’ steady core and stronger defensive identity are key reasons they’re positioned for a deep postseason run. At this stage, only the Cleveland Cavaliers and Philadelphia 76ers appear to be meaningful roadblocks in their conference path.
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Lee’s confidence received an extra boost after his recent audience with Pope Leo XIV, where he presented the pontiff with a personalized Knicks jersey. He hopes the moment adds a touch of momentum to a season he believes could be decisive for New York’s long-awaited title hopes.
