In a story that blends faith, fandom, and a bit of sports history, a Central Kentucky priest finds himself in possession of a truly one-of-a-kind item: a University of Kentucky basketball jersey signed by not one, but two Popes. Father Jim Sichko, a well-known priest and papal missionary of mercy appointed by Pope Francis, recently revealed the existence of the holy sports memorabilia, sparking interest and curiosity from basketball fans and the faithful alike.
The jersey, a classic UK blue, bears the autographs of both Pope Francis and the late Pope Benedict XVI. Father Sichko, known for his community outreach and deep Kentucky roots, has not revealed how he came to acquire such a rare item, but he admits he’s unsure what to do with it. “It’s an incredible piece, both spiritually and culturally,” he said in a recent interview. “But I don’t want it just sitting in a closet.”
As word of the jersey spreads, fans are suggesting everything from donating it to a museum, auctioning it for charity, or presenting it to the university as a unique symbol of faith and sport coming together. Regardless of where it ends up, the jersey serves as a remarkable reminder of the unexpected ways religion and sports can intersect—even through something as simple as a signature on a basketball uniform.
For now, Father Sichko is taking his time deciding, saying he wants to make sure it ends up “where it can inspire.”
