UCF defensive back Nikai Martinez enters NCAA transfer portal

UCF defensive back Nikai Martinez has entered the NCAA transfer portal, according to On3’s Pete Nakos.

Martinez bounces from the Bounce House following two seasons with the Knights, entering the transfer with two seasons of eligibility remaining at his next program of choice.

In his true freshman year for UCF Martinez appeared in all 14 games of the season, recording 21 tackles, 1.5 tackles for loss, one sack, and two pass breakups as a reserve defensive back.

Last season his role expanded as a full time starter for the Knights. Starting in all 13 of their games at safety where he tied for the team lead with three interceptions, also adding 54 tackles, 1.5 tackles for loss, and four pass breakups to his stat line in his sophomore season.

Martinez was a three-star prospect out of Apopka High School in Florida, where he was ranked the No. 406 overall player and No. 39 cornerback in the country for the 2022 recruiting cycle according to the On3 Industry Ranking, a weighted average that utilizes all four major recruiting media companies.

“First and foremost, I want to thank my Lord and Savior for always being my top provider and for securing a head of protection over my life day in and day out. It’s been an honor to play for my Hometown and I want to thank Knight Nation for the opportunity,” Martinez wrote in a statement.

“To my family and friends, I am grateful for the amount of support that I receive daily and I want you all to know that you motivate me to be the best version of myself while also pursuing my education and the love and passion that I have for the game of football. To my teammates that have become my brothers, I will always cherish the moments spent on and off the field.”

“I would like to end by recognizing my sincere appreciation for Gus and Kristi Malzahn, Addison Williams, and the remaining coaching staff, trainers, Alumni and the UCF fans,” Martinez added. “You all have contributed to the betterment of my well being, and for that I will be forever grateful.”

To keep up with the latest players on the move, check out On3’s Transfer Portal wire. 

The On3 Transfer Portal Instagram account and Twitter account are excellent resources to stay up to date with the latest moves.