Nico Iamaleava opts to stay at UCLA amid coaching changes
3 sources • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 29, 2026, 11:14 PM
Last updated Jul 29, 2026
UCLA quarterback Nico Iamaleava announced he plans to remain with the Bruins despite a challenging 2025 season and a new head coach in Bob Chesney. Iamaleava's commitment follows the team's disappointing 3-9 record, the worst since 2018. Chesney revealed that Iamaleava did not want to enter the transfer portal, citing reasons such as his Southern California roots and having his younger brother on the team. The focus now shifts to helping Iamaleava advance as he prepares for what could be his final year of college football. UCLA's season opener is on September 5 against California.
- •Nico Iamaleava wanted to stay at UCLA after a tough season.
- •UCLA finished the 2025 season 3-9, hiring Bob Chesney as head coach.
- •Chesney focused on retaining Iamaleava to stabilize the team.
- •Iamaleava led the Bruins in both passing and rushing yards last season.
- •UCLA opens its season against California on September 5.
- 12:00 AMESPN — Iamaleava: Chesney hiring made UCLA easy pick
- 7:07 PMYahoo Sports — Nico Iamaleava wanted to stay at UCLA, Chesney says: 'Did not want to go anywhere'
"UCLA quarterback Nico Iamaleava says he and new head coach Bob Chesney immediately clicked, making his decision to stay with the Bruins an easy one.
"UCLA coach Bob Chesney said quarterback Nico Iamaleava wanted to stay with the Bruins regardless of a bad season and new coaches.
Sources
External links- ESPNJul 30, 2026, 12:00 AMIamaleava: Chesney hiring made UCLA easy pick
UCLA quarterback Nico Iamaleava says he and new head coach Bob Chesney immediately clicked, making his decision to stay with the Bruins an easy one.
- Yahoo SportsJul 29, 2026, 7:07 PMNico Iamaleava wanted to stay at UCLA, Chesney says: 'Did not want to go anywhere'
UCLA coach Bob Chesney said quarterback Nico Iamaleava wanted to stay with the Bruins regardless of a bad season and new coaches.
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