Iowa's Fran McCaffery, Gary Barta talk contract change but nothing imminent

NEWTON – Iowa Athletics Director Gary Barta and men's basketball coach Fran McCaffery have held informal talks about altering McCaffery's contract but nothing is imminent both men said Wednesday night.

“It's not like we have to have it done tomorrow, and we're certainly approaching it that way,” Barta said before the Jasper County I-Club spring banquet at Iowa Speedway. “We're in no hurry.

“It's important, but it's not urgent. That's kind of how we've been going at it.”

McCaffery signed a six-year contract when he was hired in 2010 at $1.1 million the first two years. The contract lists incremental raises until reaching $1.35 million the sixth year. McCaffery just completed his second season at Iowa. Next year he's slated to make $1.15 million.

The Hawkeyes earned their first winning season since 2007 and their first postseason berth last year since 2006 after finishing 18-17. Iowa also won its first postseason game since 2004 with a first-round NIT victory against Dayton. Iowa was 11-20 in McCaffery's first season.

McCaffery said nothing is finalized on additional years or more compensation and deferred to Barta on specifics.

“That's premature, but we're working in that direction,” McCaffery said when asked if there was an agreement. “Both (years and compensation), I think that's where we're headed.”

Barta said he and McCaffery have met almost weekly since the offseason.

“We've been on the same page ever since he walked in the door two years ago. I would say we're still there,” Barta said. “We've been talking about the future. Clearly I'm very pleased with where we've gone so far, and talking about how many years and compensation, again, we're on the same page.”