The Polynesian influence and pipeline in Tucson has always been strong, and this season was no exception. From an abundance of Polynesian players on the roster, to the coaches wearing leis, also known as ‘kahoas’, it’s seem only fitting that the nation’s top Polynesian player come from the Wildcats. On Thursday, Arizona wide receiver Tetairoa McMillan was named the 2024 Polynesian Player of the Year.
McMillan hauled in 84 receptions for a Power 4-best 1,319 receiving yards, as well as eight touchdowns this season. He received First-Team All-Big 12 honors, and is also a consensus All-American after being a First-Team selection by the AFCA, Associated Press, CBS/247 Sports, Pro Football Focus, USA Today, and Athletic. McMillan was also a finalist for the Biletnikoff Award, presented to the top receiving in the country. He finishes his career in Tucson as Arizona’s all-time receiving yards leader, with 3,423 yards.
He won the high school version of the award in 2021, joining former Maryland quarterback Taulia Tagovailoa as the only player to win the high school and collegiate versions of the award. Tetairoa McMillan is also the first player in Arizona program to win the Polynesian Player of the Year award.
With Tetairoa McMillan off to the NFL, this should be a nice addition to his resume ahead of the combine and draft process.