During his tenure at Tennessee, Iamaleava demonstrated his prowess on the field, throwing for 2,616 yards and 19 touchdowns in the 2024 season. His performance was instrumental in leading the Volunteers to a 10–3 record and their first-ever College Football Playoff appearance.

 

In an Instagram post, Iamaleava expressed the difficulty of his decision to leave Tennessee but emphasized his belief in a new direction. He stated, “This decision was incredibly difficult, and truthfully, not something I expected to make this soon. But I trust God’s timing, and I believe He’s leading me where I need to be.”

 

Returning to his roots, Iamaleava’s choice to join UCLA brings him back to Southern California, where he previously attended high schools in Downey and Long Beach. His familiarity with the region and the program likely influenced his decision. At UCLA, he is expected to compete for the starting quarterback position under new head coach DeShaun Foster, as the Bruins transition into their first Big Ten season.

 

The details of Iamaleava’s NIL agreement with UCLA have not been disclosed. However, his addition to the Bruins’ roster is anticipated to bolster the team’s offensive capabilities and overall competitiveness in the upcoming season.

 

Iamaleava’s commitment to UCLA not only signifies a new chapter in his athletic journey but also underscores the evolving landscape of college football, where NIL agreements play an increasingly pivotal role in player decisions and team dynamics.