An optical fiber connector sub-assembly for an optical fiber connector includes a ferrule configured to hold an optical fiber therein along an axis of the ferrule and a ferrule holder configured to hold the ferrule. The ferrule has an end face at which the optical fiber is terminated, and the ferrule holder includes a base in which the ferrule is configured to be seated. The sub-assembly includes a ferrule basket including an inner sleeve slidably coupled with an outer sleeve and configured to isolate a front end of the connector from a rear end of the connector such that the ferrule is isolated from movement of the rear end of the connector. The ferrule basket is configured to receive the ferrule holder therein.