As the UCLA Bruins navigated a challenging 2024 season, one constant emerged in tight end Moliki Matavao. The senior delivered steady production and leadership, culminating in a career-best performance in the Bruins’ 20-13 victory over Fresno State in the season finale.
Moliki Matavao, who transferred to UCLA from Oregon after the 2022 season, found new life with the Bruins. Leaving a program that has since become a national powerhouse, Matavao sought opportunities to expand his role, and his decision paid dividends. He became a focal point of UCLA’s offense, finishing the year with 41 receptions for 506 yards and two touchdowns while averaging nearly 12 yards per catch.
Against Fresno State, Matavao led the team with eight receptions for 120 yards. Several of his catches came in high-pressure situations, helping to extend drives and set up UCLA’s scoring opportunities.
Maliki Matavao Reflects On UCLA Bruins Career
Reflecting on his time at UCLA, Matavao shared how much the team’s bonds meant to him.
“Just the bonds that we have with this team,” Matavao said. “Especially this senior group, we are all really close both on and off the field. It is just awesome seeing us all succeed, especially after this last game.”
Matavao’s season also featured notable highlights earlier in the year. On October 19 against Rutgers, he racked up 104 receiving yards on six catches, showcasing his ability to stretch the field.
In the November 15 game at Washington, he matched his season high with seven receptions, totaling 68 yards and a touchdown in a game that highlighted his red-zone efficiency.
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Reflecting on the lessons he learned during his UCLA career, Matavao said, “The biggest thing that I learned is how to persevere through adversity. This season has been full of ups and downs. When you get knocked down, you get back up and keep swinging harder every time. That is something that has been ingrained in us and this culture.”
As Matavao concludes his collegiate career, he leaves a lasting legacy of consistency and resilience. His ability to deliver in crucial moments and his leadership off the field have set a standard for UCLA tight ends moving forward.
In a season defined by challenges, Matavao was one of the brightest spots for the Bruins.