Imagine being an assistant coach for a program for the first time and bagging a big win? That’s Connor McCaffery for you! First season as an assistant coach at Butler University and already celebrating its first win in the College Basketball Crown tournament. His 7th month with the program has been marked by moments of pride and progress. Connor couldn’t contain his excitement when news broke of a star guard committing to the program. His response on Instagram captured the spirit and aspiration of the Butler basketball program.

It all started when the Bulldogs claimed a thrilling win in the College Basketball Crown tournament. Senior forward Pierre Brooks II hit a game-winning layup with just 3 seconds left to help the Bulldogs beat Utah 86-84. The team overcame a halftime deficit to pick up a gritty, hard-fought win. It must have been the perfect reward for all the work Connor and head coach Thad Matta have put into building this team. This was an emotional win and a reminder that in difficult circumstances, Butler has the heart to keep going.

But that wasn’t all. Not only did Butler secure the win, but they also landed a great recruit, Purdue Fort Wayne standout Jalen Carmelo Jackson. The news was shared by Jackson on Instagram, but what got everyone’s attention was Connor’s response to the post.

Connor’s three-word, simple message, “Let’s get it,” was exactly what the moment needed. The addition of Jackson to the team is huge. Before joining the Bulldogs, he was averaging over 19 points a game and dropped a jaw-dropping 38 points in a single game in the 2024-25 season. Connor’s comment on his arrival makes it pretty clear that he believes in his team and is pumped for the future.

After their win, Butler will now play Boise State in the second round of the Crown tournament. There is a building energy around the program, and for Connor, this victory was a special moment. Watching his team grow to the occasion on a big stage must’ve been fulfilling.

Connor McCaffery’s Impact at Butler 

What makes Connor’s coaching journey even more interesting is his experience with the Indiana Pacers. His time working on player development, scouting, and video analysis is proving invaluable at Butler. “Following a high-level playing career, Connor has had the opportunity to both contribute and learn alongside one of the best staffs in the NBA,” said Butler head coach Thad Matta. “Those experiences will be very valuable to our staff. He obviously comes from a basketball family that I know very well and I’m excited for the impact he is going to have on our program both quickly and in the long run.” It’s easy to see why Matta is so excited—Connor is bringing a wealth of knowledge that’s helping shape Butler’s future, even if the team is still growing and learning along the way.

But Connor’s connection with Butler goes beyond coaching. Patrick McCaffery is on the Bulldogs’ roster for the 2024–25 season, and youngest sibling Jack is coming next year. Butler is more than just coaching to Connor, it’s family.

Of course, the season hasn’t been without its challenges. This season, Butler has been a team with a 6-14 conference record. Everyone’s patience was tested by the team’s nine-game losing streak. However, in a tough season, Connor’s work with player development has been evident. The path to a championship has been difficult. But it’s been all a part of the process and the Bulldogs are growing from it.

Connor’s role at Butler will remain critical as the team looks to advance in the College Basketball Crown tournament with new recruits such as Jalen Jackson. With each victory and each new addition, you can feel the excitement around the program. And Connor McCaffery is a big part of Butler’s future.