On Wednesday, Sept. 17, Villanova welcomed Jalen Brunson and Josh Hart to the Finneran Pavilion for a live filming of their podcast, “The Roommates Show.” Alongside the Knicks stars was co-host Matt Hillman, serving as a facilitator and partner. These festivities marked the celebratory kickoff to the 2025-26 men’s and women’s basketball seasons.
The Villanova community feels immense pride for its “’Nova Knicks.” Brunson commands the New York Knicks’ offense as the starting point guard, with Hart complementing him on the wing. Prior to their time in the NBA, both Brunson and Hart attended Villanova, where they helped lead the Wildcats to two NCAA championships (2016 and 2018). Evidently, being back on Lancaster Avenue was a nostalgic return for them.
“[This event] was an interesting new addition to the college basketball season opener,” junior Lorelai Cadorette shared. “Since it was a podcast, it was admittedly hard to translate into a live show, but the experience was still incredibly entertaining and memorable.”
Brunson and Hart interviewed head coaches Kevin Willard and Denise Dillon to discuss their outlook for the upcoming season and shared experience of returning to lead at their alma mater. Their connection to the program runs deep as both coaches once donned Wildcats jerseys themselves in the 1990s.
“The Roommates Show” also welcomed Maddy Siegrist to the stage. Siegrist is one of the most accomplished players in Villanova’s basketball history. As a Wildcat, Siegrist became the all-time leading scorer in both Villanova program history and the Big East Conference. Brunson, Hart and Siegrist reflected on their respective memories in the Finn and how their careers and lives have since evolved.
After an intermission, the duo invited Jay Wright to join them. Wright is a legend at Villanova, the architect of our golden era of basketball. It is always exciting to welcome him back to campus, where his presence continues to inspire the Villanova community.
“I loved hearing stories from Jay Wright about what Jalen Brunson and Josh Hart were like at Villanova,” junior Abby Contessa said. “I thought they were hilarious, I’m so grateful I got to attend the event.”
As the evening came to a close, Villanova was proud to host Jason Kelce, the retired Eagles icon and one of football’s greatest modern centers. The student body showed its Philadelphia pride through a sea of Eagles jerseys in the crowd.
“It was so fun,” sophomore Emma Gernhardt said. “It was also incredible to see Jason Kelce. He seemed like such a genuinely nice and talented guy. [Even though the podcast was] a bit long.”
“The Roommates Show” was a unique, quintessentially Villanovan experience. However, it replaced a beloved tradition, Hoopsmania. “Hoops” was the annual basketball season kickoff event featuring player introductions, a dunk contest, a scrimmage and often a mini-concert by a popular musical artist. Past years have included Drake, Nicki Minaj, Rick Ross, 50 Cent and last season, Gunna.
As dynamic as this podcast taping was, some students preferred the lively, upbeat spirit that Hoopsmania brought.
“Last year, Gunna brought brimming energy and a musical performance where you could vibe, stand on your feet and openly talk with your friends and laugh,” sophomore Ary Muniz shared.
Still, students enjoyed the podcast and appreciated getting to see some of the great Villanova success stories return to share their memories.
“Gunna’s performance last year was better,” sophomore Peter Garenani said. “However, I could really appreciate this year’s event.”
Some students may prefer the vibrancy of live music, while others delight in the discussion of sports history. Regardless, Villanova is grateful to have such a strong alumni network and passionate community that comes together to celebrate its legacy. As the basketball season commences, the energy in the Finn showed that no matter the format, Wildcat pride is alive and ready to make more history.
