Who are Puka Nacua Parents, Penina and Lionel Nacua? The People Behind Rams’ Pro Bowl WR

Puka Nacua has been on the rise in the NFL as a rookie wide receiver for the Los Angeles Rams. His dedication is very deeply rooted in his family’s influence and his own unwavering commitment. Not to mention, Nacua has managed to maintain an astounding record of 15 receptions in a single game. There’s no denying that Puka Nacua’s parents have instilled in him the lessons and principles that guide his life.

When Nacua was younger, Lionel used to put emphasis on analyzing game films over childhood leisure activities. Clearly, it has profoundly shaped Puka’s approach to football. Sadly, the loss of Lionel was a big emotional challenge for Puka and his mother, Penina. Yet, it also served as a driving force behind his burgeoning career.

Who are Puka Nacua’s parents?

Lionel Nacua was a force in the family long before his passing in 2012 from diabetes complications when Puka was just 11. You can tell his love for sports and family shaped all six kids. Penina, his mother, stepped in entirely after that. Raising Kai, Isaiah, Samson, Tei, Chanel, and Puka on her own, she became this rock everyone leaned on. 

Her support turned out to make Puka and his siblings what they are today. Imagine juggling that much responsibility and still making sure your kids chase their dreams.. What stands out most is how Puka, himself, gives back. 

The holiday pizza party for families in need in December 2023 was simple but heartfelt. It felt genuine, not just a PR move. No matter how high he rises in football, he hasn’t forgotten where he came from. It’s the kind of thing that makes you root for someone not just as an athlete but as a person, too.

What is the ethnicity of Puka Nacua’s parents?

Puka Nacua’s mom, Penina, is Samoan. Her family moved from Western Samoa to California in 1968, so she grew up embracing Samoan culture and traditions. His dad, Lionel, was from Hawaii and had Portuguese roots. 

That mix of Samoan, Hawaiian, and Portuguese heritage gave Puka a rich cultural background he carries with pride. He often shares his Samoan roots on social media and in public appearances. It means a lot to him.

Who are Puka Nacua’s siblings?

Puka Nacua has five siblings, as mentioned. His oldest brother, Kai, played safety at BYU and then bounced around the NFL with teams like the Browns, Colts, 49ers, and Jets. Now he competes for the Michigan Panthers in the UFL. 

Isaiah, the second oldest, also played at BYU before leaving for a church mission and has stayed out of the spotlight since. Samson followed Puka to BYU after transferring from Utah and has NFL and UFL experience, though that suspension in April 2025 after a fan incident shows even athletes have their messy moments. 

Tei, the youngest, just graduated from high school in 2024 and is already committed to BYU. Chanel, the only sister, keeps a low profile but clearly has her brothers’ backs. Honestly, seeing a whole family so tied together through football and supporting each other is kind of amazing. It really shows how much their late father’s influence lives on.

Puka Nacua’s relationship with his parents

Puka Nacua’s bond with his parents has shaped who he is both on and off the field. His father passed away when Puka was just 11, but the lessons he left behind still guide him. Lionel loved football and worked hard to instill a strong work ethic in his kids.  Puka often credits his dad for sparking his love for the game and teaching him how to approach challenges with determination. Even years after his father’s passing, Lionel’s influence is felt in the way Puka trains, plays, and handles pressure.

His mother, Penina, became the family’s anchor after Lionel’s death. Raising six kids on her own, she made sure each child had the support and guidance they needed. Puka talks about calling his mom every day, checking in after games, and leaning on her advice. 

The strength inspired him to keep pushing through setbacks and pursue his dreams with focus. Beyond football, Puka honors both his parents by giving back to the community, hosting events like holiday gatherings for families in need. His relationship with them shows is full of love, guidance, and family values. Sweet, isn’t it?