LOS ANGELES, Calif., July 28, 2025
## UCLA Athletics Eyes Breakthrough Amidst Revenue Sharing and Star Power
UCLA anticipates a historic year with key transfers and a focus on revenue generation as college sports navigate new financial landscapes.
UCLA officially enters the revenue-sharing era on Friday, with athletes poised to receive their first payments from a $20.5 million distribution pool in the first year. This marks a significant shift in college athletics, where rules are constantly evolving and athlete compensation is reaching new heights.
Athletic Director Martin Jarmond expressed optimism about the current energy surrounding UCLA’s athletic program. “There’s an energy and buzz that I feel we haven’t had since I’ve been here,” Jarmond stated, reflecting on his five years leading the department.
The Bruins are making significant moves across multiple sports. The football team has bolstered its roster with the addition of quarterback Nico Iamaleava from Tennessee, while the men’s basketball team secured Donovan Dent from New Mexico. This quarterback-point guard combination is being hailed as potentially the best since Josh Rosen and Lonzo Ball nearly a decade ago.
Jarmond observed Iamaleava during a recent player-run practice, noting his impressive 50-yard pass to wide receiver Kwazi Gilmer. “Nico made a play that I don’t know how many other guys in the country could make,” Jarmond remarked, showcasing the high caliber of talent arriving in Westwood.
UCLA’s Jordan Chiles competes on the floor exercise during the NCAA women’s gymnastics championships in Fort Worth on April 17.
(Tony Gutierrez / Associated Press)
A Surge of Talent and Opportunity
The excitement extends to other programs. The women’s basketball team, fresh off a Final Four appearance, has added sharpshooter Gianna Kneepkens from Utah and freshman Sienna Betts. Softball standout Megan Grant is also expected to make a significant impact, potentially becoming a two-sport star.
The baseball team, fresh off a College World Series berth, welcomes back shortstop Roch Cholowsky, a projected top MLB draft pick for 2026. Pitcher Angel Cervantes, initially set for the Pittsburgh Pirates, has opted to play for the Bruins next season. Jarmond expressed confidence in the team’s ability to continue playing at Jackie Robinson Stadium in 2026 following a judicial stay on legal proceedings.
The men’s water polo team aims to defend its national championship, with freshman Ryder Dodd looking to surpass his MPSF-record 102 goals from last season. The women’s gymnastics team, after a runner-up finish, is set to welcome a top recruiting class and the return of two-time Olympic medalist Jordan Chiles.
Navigating the New Landscape
Jarmond emphasized the administration’s commitment to supporting Olympic sports, especially with Los Angeles hosting the 2028 Summer Olympics. “This is the time to continue to invest in our Olympic sports,” Jarmond said, “and we’re going to uphold that tradition.”
Unlike some other institutions, UCLA is not considering imposing student fees to manage athletic department costs. Instead, the focus is on revenue generation through fundraising, ticket sales, sponsorships, and innovative partnerships. The school plans to collaborate with an external firm to assist athletes with content creation, enhancing their social media presence for NIL opportunities.
Regarding Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deals, Jarmond noted that while there’s a backlog of deals under review by the new College Sports Commission, he’s unaware of any UCLA athlete deals being rejected. Deals over $600 are scrutinized by NIL Go to ensure they align with fair market value and legitimate business purposes.
UCLA football coach Deshaun Foster speaks to reporters during Big Ten media days in Las Vegas.
(Louis Grasse / Getty Images)
Jarmond remains optimistic about the evolving compensation landscape. “I’m optimistic that it’s going to work out,” he said. “I’m optimistic that we will adapt to whatever situation that presents itself.”
The university is also enhancing its basketball programs by hiring assistant general managers for both men’s and women’s teams to aid in recruiting and managing the transfer portal.
When it comes to distributing revenue-sharing funds, Jarmond has delegated the decision-making to the coaches. Football coach DeShaun Foster explained his team’s allocation was based on talent, with general manager Khary Darlington and assistant general manager Steven Price assessing player values using their prior NFL experience.
“They loved that we had people explaining to them how you’re getting this money or why you’re not getting this money,” Foster commented on his players’ reception. “And I think that resonated with them.”
UCLA’s athletic department achieved its best Learfield Director’s Cup finish since 2018, placing fifth in the Big Ten standings. Despite the challenges of a coast-to-coast conference schedule, UCLA athletes maintained a “phenomenal” 3.22 grade-point average through the winter quarter.
For UCLA athletics to reach its desired pinnacle, success in football and men’s basketball is crucial. Jarmond believes the current coaching staff and new talent provide a strong foundation for achievement next season.
Iamaleava’s arrival has significantly boosted excitement for the football team, which finished 5-7 in Foster’s inaugural season. Jarmond noted that two recruits specifically cited the quarterback as a key reason for choosing UCLA.
“We just have more interest and buzz, and it’s cool,” Jarmond said. “I think DeShaun has created that, and Nico and the guys.”
Jarmond views this period as a springboard for future success. “This is a great time for UCLA athletics,” he concluded, “and I feel like it’s just the beginning.”
