LAS VEGAS — Quarterback Nico Iamaleava is embarking on a new chapter in his football career, transferring from the University of Tennessee to the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). At the Big Ten media days in late July, Iamaleava stood out in a powder blue suit, addressing questions regarding his transition and the circumstances surrounding his departure from Tennessee.
Throughout the nine-hour media event, Iamaleava faced a barrage of inquiries concerning his exit from Tennessee and his reasons for choosing UCLA. With a calm demeanor, he emphasized his desire to be closer to his family, particularly his mother, Marleinna Iamaleava, a breast cancer survivor. “I think just the outside world in general thinks that it was something that it wasn’t,” Iamaleava stated in an interview with ESPN.
In April, reports indicated that Iamaleava’s camp sought a $4 million Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deal for 2025, nearly double his initial agreement. After missing a spring practice, Tennessee’s head coach Josh Heupel announced that the program would move forward without him. Iamaleava subsequently entered the transfer portal and quickly found a new home at UCLA.
“I think for me, going back home was always in the back of my head,” Iamaleava said. “When the false narratives [about money] started coming out… that was my driving factor.”
The dynamics surrounding Iamaleava’s transfer have generated mixed reactions. Deshaun Foster, UCLA’s head coach, defended Iamaleava, stating, “He hasn’t had any off-the-field issues; he didn’t get kicked out of Tennessee. He didn’t do anything.” As he prepares for the upcoming season, Iamaleava’s presence at UCLA is seen as an opportunity for both him and the program.
Family Connections and Cultural Roots
In July, Iamaleava participated in a family reunion in Lynwood, California, attended by relatives from across the United States and as far as Samoa. The event, hosted by his mother and aunt, saw a gathering of nearly a hundred family members. Iamaleava noted the significance of these reunions, highlighting the competitive spirit and traditional Samoan cuisine that define his family gatherings.
“I missed the last family reunion we had because I was in Tennessee, so I was glad I was able to make it,” Iamaleava remarked. His commitment to family remains strong, especially after his mother’s battle with cancer. He expressed a deep need to be close to her, stating that the travel from Los Angeles to Tennessee was challenging for her health.
The return to UCLA is not only a personal decision for Iamaleava; it also reflects a family affair, as his younger brother Madden also transferred to UCLA after initially committing to another school. The narrative surrounding Iamaleava’s move has faced skepticism, particularly regarding NIL implications. Despite the doubts, Iamaleava remains focused on his journey, asserting, “I really don’t care. I know who I am, my family knows who I am and I’m excited to be at UCLA.”
UCLA’s New Era: Expectations and Adjustments
As UCLA begins its fall camp just 50 miles south of the campus, Iamaleava is already the center of attention. His physical presence and skill set have drawn praise from coaches and teammates alike. Every move he makes is scrutinized by media and fans, which adds pressure as he steps into a leadership role.
Reports indicate that Iamaleava’s talent was evident even before he joined UCLA, having been recognized as a consensus five-star recruit. His former coach, Felipe Aguilar, noted, “His ability to just make everything seem easy has always stood out.”
UCLA players have welcomed Iamaleava, with linebacker JonJon Vaughns stating that the team has embraced him as one of their own. Incoming offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach Tino Sunseri sees Iamaleava as a unique talent, emphasizing the importance of building a strong connection between them. “Whenever you’re able to bring in a special talent, it’s only so often you get an opportunity like that,” Sunseri remarked.
The Bruins’ football program is eager to capitalize on Iamaleava’s arrival, especially after a disappointing 5-7 season last year. The team aims to enhance its visibility and performance, with Iamaleava’s talent potentially attracting more attention to the program. “He’s bringing attention to our program,” Foster said, underscoring the significance of this transition for both the player and the team.
The upcoming season will serve as a proving ground for Iamaleava and the UCLA Bruins. As the team prepares for its opener, the focus remains on transforming the buzz surrounding Iamaleava into tangible success on the field. For Iamaleava, this transition marks not just a change in schools but a return to his roots and a chance to forge his legacy in the sport he loves.