In the heart of the Big 12, where every snap is a battle and every game a proving ground, Jacob Kongaika has emerged as a force of nature—equal parts warrior, leader, and cultural ambassador. The senior defensive tackle helped lead Arizona State University to a Big 12 Championship, but his journey is about more than football. It’s about faith, family, and the enduring strength of his Polynesian roots.
“I really just wanted to play more—to prove myself, to put my last name on the map,” Kongaika says. “Just to hear my name called in the stadium.”
Born in Southern California and raised in Diamond Bar, Kongaika’s story begins with his family’s deep ties to Tonga. His upbringing was steeped in cultural pride, service, and spirituality—values that continue to guide him on and off the field.
“It’s really about setting an example for my two little sisters,” he says. “Just paving the way for them, making it easier, so when people hear the name Kongaika, they already know.”
– Jacob Kongaika
After a standout high school career at Mater Dei, one of the nation’s premier football programs, Kongaika began his college career at the University of Arizona. But when the NCAA transfer portal opened, he saw a chance to grow—and found a new home at ASU.
“It was a blessing to get that offer from U of A,” he reflects. “But when the portal opened, I saw a chance to grow even more. ASU felt like the right fit.”
With the rise of NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness), Kongaika has also been able to give back to the people who’ve supported him most.
“It’s for surely a blessing,” he says. “Before, players couldn’t get paid. Now, I can help provide for my family. That means everything.”
His work ethic is rooted in the quiet sacrifices of his father, who worked multiple jobs to support the family.
“That’s why I go so hard,” Kongaika says. “I want to retire my dad early. Give my mom the life she deserves. Make it easier for my siblings.”
But there’s more to Jacob than tackles and trophies. Before he was a force on the field, he was a voice in the Mater Dei choir—a talent that earned him the nickname “the singing teddy bear.”
“If I wasn’t playing football, I’d probably be in school for a music degree, maybe in a choir,” he says. “I miss it sometimes. It was a lot of fun just singing on my own.”
That blend of toughness and tenderness came to life in one of the most iconic moments of ASU’s season. After a rivalry win over Arizona, Kongaika grabbed Sparky’s pitchfork and drove it into the center of the Wildcats’ field.
“When the clock hit zero, I ran out and stabbed the A. That was for all of us.”
Now, with a Big 12 title under his belt and one final season ahead, Kongaika is focused on finishing strong—and inspiring the next generation.
“Trust the Lord’s plan. Keep an open mind and an open heart. Go to work. Give service. And trust the Lord.”
In a sport that often celebrates flash over foundation, Jacob Kongaika is a reminder that greatness is built on faith, family, and cultural pride. He’s not just playing for stats—he’s playing for something far deeper.
He’s playing for his name.
