Nico Iamaleava discusses mental health and UCLA transition

UCLA quarterback Nico Iamaleava has reflected on his transition from the Tennessee Volunteers to his return to Southern California. During preseason media day, Iamaleava discussed the mental health challenges he faced while playing in Tennessee, noting that being far from home put him in a “rough mental state.”

Iamaleava, a highly-ranked recruit, moved to UCLA following a tumultuous departure from Knoxville. He noted that returning home has aided his maturity and transition. He also addressed the social media scrutiny directed at him and his family, stating that he relies on a strong support system, including his parents and brothers, to manage the “outside noise.”

His move to UCLA followed a difficult 2025 campaign for the Bruins, where the team finished with a 3-9 record.