Iowa Men's Basketball Head Coach Fran McCaffery is fully committed to returning to the team next season. Speculation about his future has ramped up amid a bad season for the Hawkeyes. Iowa currently sits at 15-14 overall (6-12 in conference), and is having one of the worst seasons under McCaffery.
Iowa is in danger of suffering its third losing season under McCaffery, and is close to missing out on the Big 10 Tournament. Without entry into the Big 10 Tournament, the Hawkeyes also face the possibility of missing the NCAA Tournament for the second straight year.
Fran McCaffery says he has every intention of returning next season as Iowa’s head coach.
— Eliot Clough (@EliotClough) March 4, 2025
“I’m fully committed to the program, the players. I have no intention of moving on.” pic.twitter.com/Hqjl6t4HwU
Coach Fran McCaffery tried to shut down any speculation by saying he is "fully committed to the program," and is solely focused on preparing for a tough matchup against Michigan State. Fans are sharing mixed reactions on social media to his statement.
@bgoetz12 you better stop this now. Fire him before Thursday
— Hawkeye Enjoyer 🐤 (@HawkGuyEnjoyer) March 4, 2025
Some fans have seen enough and are calling for his immediate firing, not even waiting before the last two games of the regular season.
— Merkles (@My_niche7) March 4, 2025
This is another example of some fans being fed up with Fran. They have no words to describe their ill feelings towards Fran, just a GIF to express disappointment.
I feel like I’m in the very small minority of fans who are OK with this.
— Stanley (@IowaSportsGuy1) March 4, 2025
Some fans still back Fran, sharing support on social media after his statement. They feel like they are part of the minority opinion due to a large expression of disdain for the Iowa head coach.
As a fan of @CycloneMBB this is music to my ears! 😄 Please stay in Iowa City forever Fran!! 🤣
— Ryan David (@WiseguysRyan) March 4, 2025
Rival Iowa State Cyclone fans are also weighing in. They are happy with Fran's announcement, implying it is better for their team if Fran remains the head coach.
The contract extension McCaffery signed in 2021 goes through the 2027-2028 season. The buyout is 4.2 million dollars, but can be paid over a three years.
The Iowa Hawkeyes host the Michigan State Spartans on Thursday, March 5, at 7:00 p.m. at Carver-Hawkeye Arena. This will be a tough matchup on senior night as the Hawkeyes look to finish their season strong.