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Nico Iamaleava to Transfer to UCLA Following NIL Dispute with Tennessee

The former Tennessee quarterback enters the transfer portal after seeking a higher NIL deal, with reports indicating his move to UCLA under a reduced financial package.

Dec 21, 2024; Columbus, Ohio, USA; Tennessee Volunteers quarterback Nico Iamaleava (8) throws against the Ohio State Buckeyes during the second half of the College Football Playoff first round game at Ohio Stadium. Ohio State won 42-17. Mandatory Credit: Adam Cairns-Imagn Images/File photo
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Tennessee quarterback Nico Iamaleava (8) scores a touchdown against Iowa during the 2024 Citrus Bowl at Camping World Stadium.
Quarterback Nico Iamaleava, seen before a game between Tennessee and North Carolina State on Sept. 8, 2024, in Charlotte, N.C., was regarded as the top player in the transfer portal. (AP Photo/Scott Kinser)

Overview

  • Nico Iamaleava officially entered the NCAA transfer portal with a 'do not contact' tag, signaling his likely transfer to UCLA.
  • Iamaleava's departure from Tennessee stemmed from an unresolved NIL dispute, where he reportedly sought $4 million but was denied by the program.
  • Reports confirm UCLA's NIL offer is significantly lower than Iamaleava's initial request, marking a sharp financial contrast to his previous deal with Tennessee's collective.
  • Iamaleava led Tennessee to a 10-3 record and its first College Football Playoff appearance in 2024 but skipped spring practice and the spring game during the NIL standoff.
  • Tennessee coach Josh Heupel stated the program is moving forward without Iamaleava, emphasizing that no player is bigger than the team.