McCaffery continues improvement

After a successful sophomore season at Iowa City West High School, Connor McCaffery is getting a taste of the NCAA Tournament this week with his father, Fran McCaffery and the Iowa Hawkeyes in Seattle.

"It's fun being out here with my family and the team at the NCAA Tournament," McCaffery said.

The 6-foot-5 point guard from Iowa City, led the Trojans to a 25-1 season. While they failed in attempt for a fourth straight state title, McCaffery led them to the state semifinals before falling to North Scott in a hard fought game.

"It was a really fun year and I learned a lot playing with some really good teammates. We didn't win state, but we went 25-1, took 3rd in the state and beat some really good teams along the way. I think I got better with my team and as an individual," he said.

This was a year of transition for Connor McCaffery, who took over a larger role following the graduation of Wyatt Lohaus. He saw his numbers increase almost across the board. This season he averaged 13.6 points per game, making 47% of his shots. He improved his three point percentage to 36%, and made 79% of his foul shots.

"I did a lot more this year," McCaffery said. "I scored a lot more and a rebounded the ball better this year. I think I improved in just about every area this season. It was a good in that sense, but I have really good teammates who can score too."

Now with the season over Connor McCaffery will look to get back in the gym and work specifically on a couple of aspects of his overall game.

"I just need to get more shots up and keep working on improving my overall shooting and three point shooting. I also need to continue to work on my ball handling so it's like it's on a string. Those are my two tops things and I still need to work on my explosiveness and strength."

One thing he's also receiving is some extra coaching during the season from his father and future head coach with the Hawkeyes. Connor says that after every game he and his father watch film of his game and dad isn't shy about giving his advice.

"We will watch all of my games on together on the computer after the game. He breaks it down with me and he's really been helpful with what he has told me," McCaffery said.

This spring and summer, Connor McCaffery will be playing with the Iowa Barnstormers AAU program in all of their events. He will also be playing baseball for Iowa City West High School.