Malaki Ta’ase is a husband, father, and currently plays football at Iowa State University. He grew up in Mesa, Arizona where he attended Mountain View High School. He lettered varsity all four years, where he was named Arizona’s defensive player of the year.

After high school, Malaki served a mission in Ghana, Africa for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. After returning, he played for New Mexico State, where he was named on the all CUSA freshman team. After that season, he transferred to Washington State, where he saw the field in 13 games, and is now playing his junior year at Iowa State.

Malaki was married in early 2025. Just a few months ago, he and his wife welcomed their first baby.