Caitlin Clark Passionately Cheers on Boyfriend Connor McCaffery’s Butler Bulldogs in Big East Tournament

March 16, 2025 – New York, NY – College basketball’s biggest star, Caitlin Clark, is used to being the center of attention on the court. However, during the Big East Tournament, the Iowa Hawkeyes’ superstar guard took on a different role—one of a passionate and vocal supporter. The NCAA’s all-time leading scorer was spotted enthusiastically cheering for the Butler Bulldogs, where her boyfriend, Connor McCaffery, serves as an assistant coach.

Clark, known for her fiery competitiveness and record-breaking performances at Iowa, traveled to Madison Square Garden to support McCaffery and the Bulldogs as they competed in the high-stakes conference tournament. The 22-year-old basketball icon, who is widely expected to be the No. 1 overall pick in the upcoming WNBA Draft, took a brief break from her own season to be there for McCaffery and show her unwavering support.

Clark’s Passionate Courtside Presence

Fans and media quickly took notice of Clark’s courtside presence as she passionately rooted for Butler, clad in Bulldogs gear and fully engaged in the action. Whether it was jumping to her feet after a clutch three-pointer, clapping enthusiastically during timeouts, or reacting to key defensive plays, Clark’s energy was impossible to miss.

“She’s one of the fiercest competitors in college basketball, so it’s no surprise that she brings that same intensity as a fan,” one spectator at Madison Square Garden noted. “You could see how invested she was in every play.”

Social media was abuzz with footage of Clark cheering on Butler, with some fans jokingly calling her “Butler’s honorary hype woman.” Others pointed out that Clark’s support for her boyfriend’s team exemplifies the kind of bond and mutual encouragement that exists between the couple, both of whom have deep ties to college basketball.

Connor McCaffery’s Growing Coaching Career

Connor McCaffery, the son of Iowa head coach Fran McCaffery, has been steadily making a name for himself in the coaching world. After completing his collegiate playing career with the Hawkeyes, where he was known for his high basketball IQ and leadership, he transitioned into coaching and eventually joined Butler’s staff as an assistant coach.

McCaffery’s role with Butler has been instrumental in the team’s development, particularly in terms of player mentorship and game preparation. His understanding of the game, honed under the guidance of his father at Iowa, has made him a valuable asset to the Bulldogs’ coaching staff.

A Basketball Power Couple

Clark and McCaffery have been one of the most talked-about couples in college basketball. Their relationship, which became public in 2023, has been widely celebrated by fans who admire their shared passion for the game. Despite their busy schedules—Clark dominating the NCAA with her scoring prowess and McCaffery focusing on his coaching duties—the couple has managed to support each other in meaningful ways.

During the regular season, McCaffery has often been seen at Iowa games, cheering on Clark as she shattered records and led the Hawkeyes to national prominence. Now, with Iowa preparing for the NCAA Tournament and Butler fighting for a chance to make a deep run in the Big East Tournament, the roles have temporarily reversed, with Clark taking the opportunity to be the supportive partner.

Clark’s Impact on Women’s Basketball

Clark’s presence at the Big East Tournament was not only a show of support for McCaffery but also a reminder of her immense impact on basketball as a whole. Her influence extends far beyond Iowa, as she has been instrumental in raising the profile of women’s college basketball.

As the all-time leading scorer in NCAA history, Clark has captivated audiences with her deep three-pointers, elite passing, and competitive spirit. Her games have consistently drawn massive TV ratings, sold-out arenas, and unprecedented media coverage.

With the WNBA Draft on the horizon, Clark is expected to be the face of professional women’s basketball, bringing even more attention to the sport. Her decision to take time out of her demanding schedule to support McCaffery reflects the balance she maintains between her personal life and her professional ambitions.

The Game Itself: Butler’s Tournament Hopes

Butler entered the Big East Tournament looking to solidify its NCAA Tournament chances, and having a passionate supporter like Clark in the crowd certainly didn’t hurt their morale. The Bulldogs, led by head coach Thad Matta, faced tough competition in the talent-packed conference, which includes powerhouse programs like UConn, Marquette, and Creighton.

Clark’s presence seemed to energize Butler’s players, who put up a strong fight in their opening-round game. The Bulldogs played with intensity, executing key defensive stops and hitting clutch shots to stay competitive. Whether it was a buzzer-beater before halftime or a critical defensive stand, Clark’s reactions from the stands showed just how emotionally invested she was in the team’s success.

Fan Reactions and Social Media Buzz

Clark’s enthusiastic support for Butler became a trending topic on social media, with fans sharing videos and photos of her animated reactions during the game. Some even speculated that her energy and intensity on the sidelines could make her a future coach once her playing career ends.

“Caitlin Clark has more passion from the stands than some teams have on the court,” one user tweeted.

Others applauded the couple’s mutual support, emphasizing how refreshing it is to see two basketball minds uplifting each other in their respective careers.

What’s Next for Clark and McCaffery?

With Butler’s tournament journey in full swing, McCaffery remains focused on his coaching responsibilities, while Clark prepares for her final NCAA Tournament with Iowa. As the Hawkeyes aim for another deep run in March Madness, Clark will return to the court with her signature intensity, knowing that McCaffery will be supporting her just as she supported him in New York.

Looking ahead, Clark’s transition to the WNBA will be one of the most highly anticipated moments in women’s basketball history. Meanwhile, McCaffery’s coaching career is on an upward trajectory, and his role at Butler could open doors to even greater opportunities in the future.

For now, though, their love for basketball—and each other—remains the foundation of their relationship. Clark’s presence at the Big East Tournament was a testament to the deep connection they share, proving that no matter how high the stakes are on the court, having a strong support system makes all the difference.

Conclusion

Caitlin Clark’s courtside enthusiasm at the Big East Tournament was a heartwarming reminder that even the biggest stars in sports take time to uplift and support their loved ones. As she passionately cheered for Connor McCaffery’s Butler Bulldogs, she showcased not just her love for basketball but also her appreciation for the people who matter most to her.

With her WNBA future on the horizon and McCaffery’s coaching career flourishing, the basketball power couple continues to inspire fans both on and off the court. And as March Madness unfolds, one thing is certain—whether as a player or a supporter, Caitlin Clark will always bring passion, intensity, and an unwavering commitment to the game.