Connor McCaffery Departs Butler After One Season As Assistant Coach
Connor McCaffery, the former Iowa basketball standout and son of Hawkeyes coach Fran McCaffery, has left his assistant coaching position at Butler after just one season. The unexpected move, confirmed by the university Friday, comes as the Bulldogs prepare for offseason roster changes under head coach Thad Matta.
McCaffery joined Butler in April 2025 following his playing career at Iowa, where he was a key contributor for four seasons. The 26-year-old had been seen as a rising star in coaching circles, bringing recent playing experience and basketball pedigree to the staff. No reason was given for his departure.
The news gained traction Friday afternoon after Butler's athletic department updated its staff directory. College basketball analysts immediately began speculating about potential landing spots, with some suggesting a return to Iowa's program. The timing coincides with the opening of the NCAA transfer portal and coaching carousel season.
Butler finished 18-15 last season, missing the NCAA tournament but reaching the NIT quarterfinals. McCaffery primarily worked with guards and assisted in recruiting. Athletic director Barry Collier thanked McCaffery for his contributions in a brief statement but didn't address the sudden nature of the exit.
Social media reaction has been mixed, with some Butler fans expressing disappointment while others question the program's direction. The vacancy creates another offseason challenge for Matta, who's entering his fourth season back at his alma mater. Butler has yet to name a replacement.
McCaffery's departure marks the latest shakeup in a busy Big East offseason. The conference saw four coaching changes last month, including major programs like Georgetown and St. John's. Coaching staff turnover has increased significantly since the NCAA allowed unlimited staff hires in 2023.
The McCaffery name carries weight in college basketball circles. Fran McCaffery has coached Iowa since 2010, while Connor's brother Patrick currently plays for the Hawkeyes. Many observers had expected Connor to eventually join his father's staff in Iowa City.
Butler opens its 2026-27 season November 10 against an undetermined opponent. The program last reached the NCAA tournament in 2023 under former coach LaVall Jordan. Matta, who led Butler to its first Sweet Sixteen in 2003, was rehired in 2022 to revive the program's success.
