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Nico Iamaleava’s Transfer to UCLA Remains Unresolved Following NIL Dispute

The former Tennessee quarterback denied game-throwing allegations as his potential move to UCLA faces uncertainty over NIL compensation.

Quarterback Nico Iamaleava #8 of the Tennessee Volunteers plays against the Ohio State Buckeyes at Ohio Stadium on Dec. 21, 2024 in Columbus, Ohio.
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Overview

  • Nico Iamaleava entered the NCAA transfer portal on April 16 after Tennessee coach Josh Heupel deemed their relationship irreparably damaged due to a practice holdout over NIL negotiations.
  • Iamaleava is reportedly in discussions with UCLA, but the transfer has not been finalized, with UCLA's NIL offer estimated at $1–1.5 million, significantly below his $4 million demand.
  • The quarterback publicly dismissed accusations that he intentionally underperformed in Tennessee’s College Football Playoff loss to Ohio State, calling the rumors laughable.
  • Iamaleava’s father, Nick, has publicly criticized journalist Pete Nakos for allegedly misreporting details of the NIL negotiations, escalating tensions surrounding the family’s role in the dispute.
  • Experts warn that the Iamaleava case highlights growing instability in college athletics as NIL-driven conflicts reshape the balance of power between players and programs.