Connor McCaffery Leaves Butler: A New Chapter Begins
The time for new beginnings has arrived for Connor McCaffery. After two seasons dedicated to the Butler Bulldogs basketball program as an assistant coach, McCaffery has announced his departure, a move that quickly captured the attention of his girlfriend, basketball superstar Caitlin Clark.
A Fond Farewell to Butler
McCaffery officially shared the news via Instagram, posting a heartfelt message accompanied by photos from his time with the Bulldogs. He expressed his gratitude to Coach Thad Matta for the opportunity, stating, “End of an era! Forever grateful to Coach Matta for the opportunity that he gave me. Learned a lot and worked with great people 🙏🏼 excited for what’s next!”
Caitlin Clark’s Touching Response
While McCaffery remained tight-lipped about his future plans, it was Caitlin Clark’s comment that quickly went viral. She simply wrote, “Fun times 💙,” a testament to the positive impact of this chapter in both their lives.
From Pacers to Bulldogs: A Coaching Evolution
McCaffery’s journey into coaching began with a role as Basketball Development Coordinator for the Indiana Pacers. There, he honed his skills overseeing the scout team and contributing to scouting reports. This experience proved invaluable, leading to his position at Butler University ahead of the 2024-25 season.
During his time with the Bulldogs, McCaffery took on increasing responsibilities under Coach Matta. The team saw a slight improvement, moving from a 15-20 record in the 2024-25 season to 16-16 in 2025-26. While Butler didn’t reach the NCAA Tournament, McCaffery gained crucial experience at the collegiate level.
A Family Affair: Basketball Roots Run Deep
Before embarking on his coaching career, McCaffery was a player himself, spending six seasons at the University of Iowa, appearing in 166 games. Basketball is deeply ingrained in the McCaffery family; his father, Fran McCaffery, is the head coach of Iowa’s men’s basketball team, and his brothers are also involved in the sport.
A Supportive Partnership
Clark and McCaffery’s relationship, which began in April 2023, has been characterized by unwavering support. McCaffery has been a constant presence in Clark’s corner, celebrating her achievements, including her record-breaking scoring run, and offering support during challenging times. Clark has reciprocated this support, publicly acknowledging McCaffery’s accomplishments.
Their connection has captivated fans, with public displays of affection and mutual encouragement becoming a hallmark of their relationship. Even as Clark’s star rose in the WNBA and McCaffery pursued his coaching ambitions, their bond remained strong.
Staying Close: Indianapolis and Beyond
When Clark joined the Indiana Fever, McCaffery strategically sought coaching opportunities in Indianapolis to remain close to her. This dedication highlights the importance of their relationship as they navigate their respective careers.
What’s Next for Connor McCaffery?
As McCaffery embarks on the next phase of his career, the basketball world eagerly awaits his next move. With his experience and dedication, he is poised for continued success. And with Caitlin Clark by his side, the future looks bright for this dynamic duo. You can follow Caitlin Clark’s journey in the WNBA.
