BREAKING: Three-star recruit Jayden Maiava De-commits from USC, Flips Commitment to Arkansas Over Tennessee, Michigan, and Others
The buzz in the high school football world hit a fever pitch on a crisp November morning when Jayden Maiava, a three-star quarterback from Henderson, Nevada, made the announcement that sent shockwaves through the recruiting world.
Originally committed to USC, Maiava was widely seen as a solid pledge for the Trojans. His quick release, pinpoint accuracy, and calm under pressure made him an exciting prospect, even in a crowded quarterback class. But rumors began swirling when Maiava made an unexpected visit to Fayetteville for a Razorbacks game against a conference rival. Photos of him sporting Arkansas gear leaked on social media, but Maiava and his camp remained tight-lipped—until today.
Standing in front of a packed gymnasium at Liberty High School, Maiava stepped up to the podium. The school’s colors, red and navy, were contrasted by a table adorned with hats from USC, Arkansas, Tennessee, Michigan, and several other suitors. Cameras flashed as the 6’3” quarterback reached for the USC hat, paused, and then picked up the red Razorbacks cap instead.
“I want to thank USC for believing in me,” Maiava began, his voice steady but emotional. “But after talking it over with my family, I realized Arkansas is the best place for me to grow as a player and a person. Coach Pittman and his staff have shown me that they believe in my potential, and I’m ready to call Fayetteville home.”
The room erupted into cheers and applause as Maiava slipped the hat on. Razorback fans on social media flooded timelines with excitement, while Tennessee and Michigan fans lamented losing out on the dual-threat QB. For USC, it marked a significant loss in their recruiting class, sparking questions about the program’s direction under its current leadership.
Maiava later explained his decision in an interview. “Arkansas just felt different. The fan base is electric, the coaches are genuine, and they’re building something special in the SEC. I want to be a part of that.”
The Razorbacks’ coaching staff celebrated the flip as a major win in their efforts to rebuild the program’s national relevance. “Jayden is a competitor,” Coach Pittman said in a statement. “We’re thrilled he chose Arkansas, and we can’t wait to get to work.”
As for Maiava, his journey to Arkansas is just beginning. But one thing is clear—this decision has already made him a hero in the eyes of Razorbacks fans eager to see their team rise again.