Caitlin Clark's Boyfriend Leaves Butler Bulldogs

Emotional Farewell and New Beginnings for Connor McCaffrey as WNBA Star Caitlin Clark's Relationship Intersects with Professional Paths

Apr. 12, 2026 at 3:55am

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A fragmented, geometric painting depicting a basketball game or match, with sharp, overlapping planes of color and form representing the complex dynamics between athletes and coaches.The intertwining of personal relationships and professional paths in the world of sports is captured in this cubist-inspired illustration.Las Vegas Today

Connor McCaffrey, the boyfriend of WNBA star Caitlin Clark, has announced his departure from his assistant coaching role with the Butler Bulldogs. This move comes amidst Clark's own professional success, as she is set to earn a significant pay increase under the new WNBA Collective Bargaining Agreement. The story explores the intersection of personal relationships and professional milestones in the world of sports.

Why it matters

This story highlights the evolving landscape of professional sports, where personal relationships can influence and intersect with career paths. It also sheds light on the ongoing fight for fair compensation in women's athletics, as exemplified by Caitlin Clark's substantial pay increase under the new WNBA CBA.

The details

Connor McCaffrey, who had been an assistant coach with the Butler Bulldogs, announced his departure from the team in an emotional Instagram post, declaring the 'End of an era!'. McCaffrey's tenure with the Bulldogs saw the team improve from a 14-19 record in his first year to a more respectable 16-16 finish the following season. The timing of his decision coincides with the groundbreaking new WNBA Collective Bargaining Agreement, which has significantly increased player salaries, including a massive pay increase for Caitlin Clark, who is set to earn $528,000 in 2026, up from just $85,000 in her first two seasons.

  • Connor McCaffrey announced his departure from the Butler Bulldogs in April 2026.
  • Caitlin Clark was drafted as the No. 1 pick by the Indiana Fever in 2024.
  • The new WNBA Collective Bargaining Agreement was recently implemented, leading to significant pay increases for players like Caitlin Clark.

The players

Caitlin Clark

A WNBA star who was drafted as the No. 1 pick by the Indiana Fever in 2024. She is set to earn a substantial pay increase under the new WNBA Collective Bargaining Agreement.

Connor McCaffrey

The boyfriend of Caitlin Clark and a former assistant coach for the Butler Bulldogs, who has recently announced his departure from the team.

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What they’re saying

“End of an era!”

— Connor McCaffrey, Former Assistant Coach, Butler Bulldogs

“Fun times [blue heart emoji]”

— Caitlin Clark

What’s next

It remains to be seen whether Connor McCaffrey will pursue a new coaching opportunity or explore a different career path, and how his decision will impact his relationship with Caitlin Clark as she continues to thrive in the WNBA.

The takeaway

This story highlights the complex interplay between personal relationships and professional success in the world of sports, as well as the ongoing fight for fair compensation in women's athletics. It serves as a reminder that the world of sports is constantly evolving, and the lives of athletes and coaches are often intertwined in unexpected ways.