Indiana Fever rookie Caitlin Clark has drawn attention this WNBA season for her impressive playmaking and scoring ability, but recently her focus shifted to a more personal matter. Clark quietly expressed support for her boyfriend, Connor McCaffery, as he grieves the passing of his grandmother, Marit Smaby Nowlin. The moment highlighted how Caitlin Clark supports grieving boyfriend Connor McCaffery during a difficult time.
Connor McCaffery, assistant coach for the Butler men’s basketball program and son of Iowa men’s basketball coach Fran McCaffery, shared his sorrow publicly on social media. He posted a touching childhood photo with his grandmother alongside a heartfelt message expressing the deep bond they shared.
In response, Clark left a simple but meaningful expression of care, using heart and prayer emojis in the comment section. This understated gesture emphasized her compassion as McCaffery navigates his loss. Friends and teammates, including Indiana Fever guard Lexie Hull, also reached out with messages of support.
Details Surrounding the Passing of Marit Smaby Nowlin
Marit Smaby Nowlin passed away on August 13, 2025, at the age of 80, according to an obituary from O’Halloran & Murphy Funeral and Cremation Services. Reports indicate she was spending time at Lake Vermilion in Minnesota, which she considered her favorite place on earth, when the incident occurred.
The Minnesota Star Tribune detailed that emergency services were called before 6 p.m. after she was found unresponsive at the lake. Family members immediately administered CPR while awaiting paramedics. She was transported to Cook Hospital, but despite efforts from the medical team, she could not be saved. The official cause of death has not been disclosed.
Strengthening Bonds Beyond the Basketball Court
While Caitlin Clark and Connor McCaffery have generally kept their relationship private, moments like these reveal the depth of their connection. McCaffery, who played college basketball at Iowa before taking on his coaching role at Butler, is known for supporting Clark’s career achievements. Now, she is providing comfort to him as he copes with this personal loss.
Sudden grief, especially amid ordinary activities like a family vacation, can be overwhelming. The outpouring of condolences from friends, teammates, and fans on McCaffery’s social media highlights the community’s solidarity around him. Clark’s gentle but poignant response serves as a reminder of the importance of being present, even when words fall short.
Balancing the pressures of a high-profile rookie season and coaching responsibilities, Clark and McCaffery face the challenge of grieving while continuing their professional lives. Their quiet display of mutual support underscores the human side of athletes whose personal stories are often overshadowed by their sports careers.