Iowa has decided to part ways with basketball coach Fran McCaffery after a disappointing season that saw the Hawkeyes record their fewest wins and finish low in the Big Ten standings for the first time in seven years. McCaffery, who is 65 years old and had a contract that ran through 2028, expressed his intent to return for another season just a week before his dismissal.
Athletic director Beth Goetz made the call to let McCaffery go in light of falling attendance at Carver-Hawkeye Arena and will proceed with his $4.2 million buyout. Under McCaffery’s leadership, the Hawkeyes amassed a record of 297-207, but their season ended on a low note with a loss to Illinois in the conference tournament. McCaffery was notably ejected during that game for disputing a foul.
As a coach, McCaffery was Iowa’s all-time wins leader and held the longest tenure in the program’s history. Goetz reflected on McCaffery’s positive impact on the team and the community, expressing gratitude for his dedication to the players and the game.
The recent season was particularly challenging, especially after leading scorer Owen Freeman suffered a season-ending injury. The team struggled, losing seven of their last nine games, prompting growing calls for McCaffery’s firing. Despite this, Iowa managed to end their regular season on a high note, winning their final game against Nebraska and pulling off an upset against Ohio State in the Big Ten Tournament.
In recent discussions, Michigan State’s coach, Tom Izzo, spoke in defense of McCaffery, highlighting the challenges Iowa faces in attracting top talent due to limited funding for player compensation. This change in coaching will come at a time when revenue sharing is set to begin in Division I sports later this year.
The next coach will face the challenge of rekindling fan interest, especially as the women’s team, led by superstar Caitlin Clark, has seen significant success and attendance growth, overshadowing the men’s team, which has struggled with attendance this season.
McCaffery had a notable career prior to joining Iowa in 2010, coaching at Lehigh, UNC Greensboro, and Siena. He is remembered for leading Iowa to multiple successful seasons, including eight 20-win seasons and making several NCAA Tournament appearances. The McCaffery family has deep ties to the program, and the community has shown strong support during their challenges.
Overall, the future of Iowa basketball now hinges on finding a new leader who can restore the team’s competitiveness and reignite the passion of its fans.
