Fran McCaffery praises senior leadership of Connor McCaffery, Filip Rebraca

Fran McCaffery recognizes how vital the leadership abilities of Connor McCaffery and Filip Rebraca was to Iowa’s success over the 2022-2023 season.

The senior duo helped keep the Hawkeyes level-headed throughout the season, leading the team to a 19-13 record, and an appearance in the NCAA Tournament. Before they take on Auburn on Thursday, their coach had nothing but praise for them.

“I think it’s absolutely critical that those guys led the way they did,” stated Fran McCaffery. “Because you’re right, in our league being as balanced as it is, it can feel really good one day and not so good the next day. It’s hard to win on the road in any league, but in our league it’s really difficult. And the ability to stay the course and to remain professional and business-like in your approach every night in this league is not going to happen unless you have that kind of leadership. Especially with your young guys, when you need them to contribute the way that they have.

“It’s the communication, not only on the court as it’s happening in realtime, but in the locker room, after a tough loss, on the bus, on the plane. Having those kind of conversations from someone other than the coaching staff is what develops confidence. And that’s the only way a young guy is going to produce at this level. So, you know, coaching is important but leadership from your seniors from Connor and Filip, there’s just no substitute for that.”

That leadership will play a big role once again on Thursday for Iowa, as the Hawkeyes enter the showdown one-point underdogs against the Tigers. Coming off two straight losses, Iowa has a fresh start, and they’ll be hoping to utilize it in grand fashion.

Fran McCaffery, Connor McCaffery and Filip Rebraca don’t want the ride to end just yet. The Iowa Hawkeyes are ready for a battle on Thursday.