Title: Nico Iamaleava’s Signing Sparks Excitement at UCLA
Early signs of the Nico Iamaleava effect were evident to DeShaun Foster, the UCLA coach when he saw a group of seven reporters in front of him. “When was the last time we had this many people here talking to us, you know what I’m saying?” Foster said Tuesday morning. “So this is a good buzz for us.”
Foster seemed pretty sure that the Bruins are now the talk of the college football world after landing the quarterback from Tennessee. He was widely regarded as the top player in the transfer portal. It did not necessitate using name, image, and likeness funds earmarked for quarterback Joey Aguilar, who is now headed to Tennessee as part of what is being jokingly called a trade between the Bruins and Volunteers.
Foster said that he was not really sure what Nico was looking for in terms of NIL funds, but he accepted UCLA’s contract. It appears to be a package deal, as Nico’s younger brother is expected to join him in Westwood.
There had been speculation that the arrival of Madden Iamaleava could prompt UCLA freshman quarterback Robert McDaniel to enter the transfer portal. However, Foster said that McDaniel had not given any indication of leaving. The Bruins will complete their final spring practices without Nico, who is yet to enroll for summer classes.
Foster was not concerned about Nico missing spring practice. He said it wouldn’t hurt him at all. He noted that other quarterbacks would get more reps to compete for the starting position.
Foster acknowledged that some players know their destination before entering the transfer portal. He said his staff could evaluate Nico’s potential quickly because of their familiarity with him as a high school prospect.
Foster said he didn’t think he needed to check with his players about the potential impact of landing Iamaleava. He said securing top talent has always been at the root of successful teams.
What are the Bruins getting in Iamaleava, who completed 63.8% of his passes last season for 2,616 yards and 19 touchdowns with five interceptions? “6-6, you know, this is a big guy,” Foster said, alluding to Iamaleava standing 6 foot 6 and weighing 215 pounds.
Foster said Iamaleava’s desire to come home and play closer to family was part of the reason for his move. There has been a positive response from season ticket-holders and an uptick in new inquiries for tickets in the wake of Iamaleava’s arrival.
