UCLA Quarterback Nico Iamaleava Attributes Transfer From Tennessee to Family Proximity, Not Money

Nico Iamaleava, the former Tennessee quarterback, addressed his transfer to UCLA at Big Ten media days, emphasizing that his primary motivation was to be closer to his family rather than financial reasons related to his name, image, and likeness (NIL) deal. Although reports surfaced about a potential NIL dispute with Tennessee, Iamaleava described these as "false reports" that made him uncomfortable, but insisted that family proximity was his main reason for returning home to California. The 6-foot-6 QB, a five-star recruit who helped Tennessee reach the College Football Playoff, acknowledged that the decision was one of the hardest he has made and expressed hope that Tennessee fans would understand his choice. Tennessee coach Josh Heupel stated the program was moving on after Iamaleava skipped spring practice amid NIL negotiations, leading to a swap of quarterbacks, with Tennessee signing UCLA's Joey Aguilar after Iamaleava committed to the Bruins. Iamaleava declined to discuss details of his new NIL deal but reaffirmed his commitment to playing at a high level while being supported by his family and culture. This transfer highlights the complex interplay of NIL, player comfort, and family considerations in college football today.