Five-Star QB Nico Iamaleava names Top 5 Schools

Five-star quarterback Nico Iamaleava of Long Beach (Calif.) Poly High has narrowed his list to five schools- Georgia, Oregon, Alabama, Tennessee, and Miami.

The 6-foot-6, 200 pounder is ranked as the No. 5 player in the 2023 class according to the On3 Consensus, a complete and equally weighted industry-generated average that utilizes all four major recruiting services. Iamaleava also ranks as the No.3 quarterback in the nation, and the second-best player in California.

Iamaleava went in depth on each of the finalists.

Georgia

“Coach (Todd) Monken has been on me since day 1,” Iamaleava said. “It wouldn’t be a bad spot with all the talent they have there, and I feel like I would fit well in his offense.” 

Oregon

“I loved the whole staff when I went out there,” Iamaleava said. “Got a home vibe there with all the people, I think it definitely helped with my cousin Viane being there.”

Alabama

“Who wouldn’t wanna play for Coach Saban, one of the best in the game?” Iamaleava said. “Along with Coach (Holmon) Wiggins and Coach (Bill) O’Brien, I feel like Bama has the formula for getting players to the league and that’s something I want to do.”

Tennessee

“I love the city of Knoxville and all of the people,” Iamaleava said. “The fans are crazy and I love it. The coaching staff has been on me since day one too and we’ve always had a strong relationship.”

Miami

“Miami was a great visit for me,” Iamaleava said. “I got to meet Coach (Mario) Cristabol for the first time and our relationship got stronger and stronger off of that visit alone. I love the whole staff and everything they’re about.”

Nico Iamaleava Scouting Summary

High-upside signal caller who may have the best physical tools among quarterbacks in the 2023 cycle. Has one of the stronger arms in the cycle, generating considerable velocity on his throws in camp settings. Tall with a slender build with room to fill out. Boasts a quick, clean throwing motion despite his longer arms. A bouncy, fluid mover who doubles as a top volleyball player. Still developing in terms of some technical aspects of the game. Plays in a high school offense that is heavily skewed towards quick passes and screens. Can continue to improve his accuracy on downfield passes. Has done a very good job taking care of the football with just two interceptions in his first two varsity seasons.