ilaoa began his collegiate career on the hawaii warriors football team in 2001. ilaoa started 8 games in the 2002 season as a wide receiver. in 2005, ilaoa moved to the running back position and rushed for a team-high 643 yards. he was granted a rare sixth year of eligibility because of injuries in 2006 and amassed 1,827 all-purpose yards. ilaoa's 20 career rushing touchdowns are sixth in hawaii history.