The 2024 Territorial Cup game in Tucson will feature a one-time Arizona Wildcat suiting up for Arizona State.Β
Former Arizona defensive tackle Jacob Kongaika announced on his social media platforms Sunday evening that he's transferring to ASU with two years of eligibility remaining.Β
Kongaika had 14 tackles, two sacks and two fumble recoveries in his sophomore campaign and was among the several defensive linemen the Wildcats rotated in this season. One of Kongaika's fumble recoveries was in the fourth quarter of Arizona's win over Oklahoma in the Alamo Bowl. He finished the season with a 66.5 defensive grade by Pro Football Focus.Β
Kongaika, a 6-2, 300-pounder from Rowland Heights, California, was a standout at prominent football powerhouse Mater Dei High School, then joined the Wildcats as a preferred walk-on before eventually landing a scholarship.
Despite the Wildcats losing starting defensive tackle Tyler Manoa and reserve senior Sio Nofoagatoto'a, Kongaika likely would've had a similar role next season with the return of starting nose tackle Bill Norton, veteran Tiaoalii Savea and standout sophomore Ta'ita'i Uiagalelei, along with the addition of UC Davis Chubba Maae.Β
