The NCAA is investigating Tennessee Volunteers’ dealings with quarterback Nico Iamaleava, focusing on NIL affairs according to reports.
Knoxville News also reports that a private flight Iamaleava boarded is connected to the probe.
Tom Mars, a lawyer for Spyre Sports Group, defended the program, stating, “In early 2022, independent of the University of Tennessee, Spyre Sports entered into a mutually beneficial contractual relationship with Nico Iamaleava that involved a limited assignment of his NIL rights, irrespective of his college choice.”
“The agreement was fully consistent with then existing NCAA NIL guidelines and had nothing to do with recruiting Nico to the University of Tennessee,” Mars added.
According to @SpyreSports @TheVolClub @JChadHatmaker
Knoxville News mentioned that over 200 Tennessee athletes have signed NIL deals with Spyre Sports Group.
Mars also mentioned that Iamaleava’s deal is linked to his future success in the NFL, regardless of the college he attends.
Iamaleava joined the Vols in 2022 and became the starter for the Citrus Bowl, leading his team to a 35-0 win over Iowa with an impressive performance.