Nico Iamaleava: Nil UCLA| Is starting for UCLA| Why did leave Tennessee

Key Developments on Nico Iamaleava

1. Fresh Start Close to Home
   Iamaleava transferred to UCLA in spring 2025, citing family proximity—returning to his native Southern California, specifically Long Beach—as his main motivation. He stated that reports portraying his decision as financially driven were inaccurate.

2. NIL Negotiation Fallout
   Tensions began earlier when negotiations with Tennessee for a revamped NIL deal reportedly escalated. His camp is said to have sought an increase from $2.4 million to as much as $4 million—though this is disputed by Iamaleava—before skipping spring practice on April 11. Head coach Josh Heupel then announced the team was moving on from him, leading to his entry into the transfer portal.

3. UCLA’s Calculated Move
   UCLA, entering its first season in the Big Ten under new head coach DeShaun Foster after a 5–7 record, saw Iamaleava as a high-upside addition. His transfer was swift: portal entry in April followed by a commitment to UCLA around April 20.

4. Official Reason: Family First
   In media statements, Iamaleava emphasized once more that his move wasn’t financially motivated but deeply rooted in family ties and comfort: “going back home was always in the back of my head.” The SunESPN.comDaily Bruin

5. Debut & Early Challenges
   His UCLA debut came with high expectations but began with a reality check: a significant loss to Utah in the season opener. He threw for 136 yards, with one TD and one interception, and was sacked four times. Still, flashes of his talent—such as a 19-yard touchdown pass—offer promise for his UCLA career.