Jayden Maiava one of the most wanted quarterback possibilities in the country, was born in Henderson, Nevada, on 11 June 2005. The 6-foot-3, 205-pounder began his life at UNLV, transferring to USC in 2024, . A season in which Maiava emerged as a key figure for the Trojans, displaying a keen ability to lead and an unwillingness to fold even when facing adversity.
Gritty Beginnings x High School Snaps
Jayden Maiava was born in Honolulu, Hawaii, into a family that is heavily involved in sports. He graduated from several high schools, including Kaimuki High School in Honolulu and Liberty High School in Henderson, Nev.
Kaimuki had a great quarterback who accumulated 3,317 yards and 41 touchdowns during the 2019 season. His performances have made him one of the top all-around prospects the state of Hawaii has seen in some time prior to transferring to Liberty High School, where he continued to shine.
College Career
UNLV Rebels
Maiava had redshirted his initial season at UNLV in 2022 but burst onto the scene in 2023. Stepping up to become the starting quarterback after an injury left the top starter unable to play, he had the Rebels off to a great start. He was 224 of 353 (63.5 %) for 3,085 yards, 17 touchdowns and 10 interceptions. For his efforts, he won the Mountain West Conference Freshman of the Year Award and was also named Second-team All-Mountain West.
USC Trojans
When January 2024 rolled around, Maiava had transferred to USC, eager for a new challenge and to improve himself further under head coach Lincoln Riley. Originally the backup, Maiava became the starter midway through the 2024 season . After Miller Moss was benched following the Trojans’ 4-5 start.
Jayden maiava made his first start in last Saturday’s win over Nebraska, completing 25 of 35 passes for 259 years and four total touchdowns in a 28-20 victory. His composure and ability to orchestrate the offensive approach impressed fans, analysts, and coaches alike, and he was named to the Polynesian Player of the Year Award Watch List.
2024 Las Vegas Bowl Heroics
Maiava capped in 2024 season with a stellar performance in the Las Vegas Bowl versus Texas A&M. Competing in front of a home-state crowd; he guided the Trojans to a 35-31 comeback win at Allegiant Stadium. Trailing by 17 points in the third quarter, Maiava led the comeback, tossing a game-winning touchdown pass to tight end Kyle Ford with eight seconds left . All season long, he had been calm under pressure and . Showed he could be one of the best quarterbacks in the league.
Future at USC
Jayden maiava has gone public in affirming his commitment to USC despite rumors of a possible transfer and interest from schools, including Miami. His goal is to continue to improve in Lincoln Riley’s system, continuing his strong performances from the 2024 season. There are going to be huge expectations for Maiava to lead the Trojans into the 2025 season as a clear starter.
Life and Work Personal Life and Academic Pursuits
Jerushua Maiava-Pratt and William Maiava-Pratt are Jayden Maiava’s parents, and he has seven siblings. He is pursuing a criminal justice degree, another challenge as he attempts to balance academic goals alongside the demands of collegiate athletics.
Achievements and Recognition
MWC Freshman of the Year (2023): For his outstanding first season at UNLV.
Polynesian Player of the Year Award Watch List (2024) — Broyles was recognized for his contributions as a star quarterback for USC.
• Las Vegas Bowl MVP Candidate (2024): (Drags USC back to life to put away Texas A&M.
Conclusion
What is helping Maiava on his journey to USC is about escaping Hawaii for a better opportunity, how moving from UNLV to USC played a key role in his migration to college . How he realized that football and Jayden are tyro city immigrants. With his strong arm, leadership, and clutchness, he has emerged as an up-and-comer in the world of collegiate football. As he matures, I look forward to him being key in USC’s quest for success in future seasons. As he continues to cement his legacy in the sport, fans and analysts alike will be closely watching his every move.