Particle.news
Download on the App Store
17 ARTICLES
·
6d ago

Nico Iamaleava Transfers to UCLA Following High-Profile Tennessee Exit

The former Tennessee quarterback has officially committed to UCLA, marking a significant chapter in the evolving dynamics of NIL-driven college football transfers.

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
Iamaleava and Tennessee head coach Josh Heupel embrace following the team's win in the Cheez-It Bowl in 2024.
Tennessee quarterback Nico Iamaleava (8) looks to pass against Vanderbilt during their game at FirstBank Stadium.
CHARLOTTE, NORTH CAROLINA - SEPTEMBER 07: Nico Iamaleava #8 of the Tennessee Volunteers warms up prior to the Duke's Mayo Classic against the NC State Wolfpack at Bank of America Stadium on September 07, 2024 in Charlotte, North Carolina. (Photo by Jared C. Tilton/Getty Images)

Overview

  • Nico Iamaleava announced his commitment to UCLA via Instagram, officially ending his tenure with the Tennessee Volunteers.
  • Iamaleava's departure from Tennessee followed a reported dispute over a requested increase in his NIL deal from $2.4 million to $4 million annually.
  • Tennessee coach Josh Heupel confirmed the program moved forward without Iamaleava after he missed practice and meetings on April 11 without notice.
  • Iamaleava entered the NCAA transfer portal with a do-not-contact tag on April 16, signaling his likely destination, which has now been confirmed as UCLA.
  • UCLA's quarterback room has been informed of Iamaleava's arrival, raising questions about the future of other quarterbacks on the roster, including Joey Aguilar.