Fri Jul 25 06:00:00 UTC 2025: Okay, here’s a summary and news article based on the provided text:

**Summary:**

Nico Iamaleava addressed his transfer from Tennessee to UCLA, citing family reasons as the primary motivator, despite reports suggesting NIL disputes were the cause. He refuted claims that he was seeking a higher NIL contract, stating that the speculation made him uncomfortable. His departure from Tennessee involved missed practices and public statements from Coach Josh Heupel emphasizing the program’s priority over individual players. His transfer to UCLA was swiftly followed by Joey Aguilar’s move from UCLA to Tennessee. Iamaleava is now the expected starting quarterback for UCLA, with high expectations.

**News Article:**

**Iamaleava Addresses Tennessee Exit, Emphasizes Family in UCLA Move**

LAS VEGAS – Former Tennessee quarterback Nico Iamaleava has broken his silence regarding his high-profile transfer to UCLA, insisting that family reasons were the driving force behind his decision, despite swirling rumors of NIL disputes.

Speaking at Big Ten media days on Thursday, Iamaleava, a Long Beach, California native, called the move “one of the hardest decisions I ever had to make,” emphasizing that the desire to be closer to his family was paramount. “My driving factor to come back home was my family, and I hope every Tennessee fan understands that,” he said. “It was just a lot of drama, but man, I’m excited to be at UCLA.”

Iamaleava directly addressed reports that he and his representation were seeking a significant increase in his NIL compensation. While ESPN reported that Iamaleava’s camp had allegedly sought a $4 million NIL deal for 2025 and contacted other programs like Miami, Ole Miss, and Oregon, Iamaleava dismissed the financial focus. “I don’t speak on money matters,” he stated. “I’m just here for ball and school.”

The quarterback’s departure from Tennessee was marked by a missed spring practice and a stern statement from Volunteers coach Josh Heupel, who declared, “There’s no one that’s bigger than the Power T. That includes me.”

Following Iamaleava’s transfer to UCLA, quarterback Joey Aguilar, who had just transferred to UCLA, moved to Tennessee. Iamaleava expressed well wishes for Aguilar, saying, “I wish him nothing but the best. I know he’s going to get the best fans out there. Hopefully he gets to experience all the positive things that I experienced.”

Iamaleava, who is expected to be the Bruins’ starting quarterback, threw for 2,616 yards and 19 touchdowns last year at Tennessee. UCLA coach DeShaun Foster expressed enthusiasm about adding Iamaleava, stating, “We’re just excited to have a playoff quarterback.”

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