Iconic League of Legends team TSM replaced by Shopify in pro league
Get ready for a major shakeup in the world of professional League of Legends esports. Shopify is making its entrance into the League of Legends Championship Series (LCS) by acquiring the spot previously held by the iconic team, TSM. This move marks a significant change in the LCS, as TSM has been a prominent and successful organization in the esports world. While TSM plans to continue competing in other regions, Shopify Rebellion will be taking its place in the LCS starting in 2024. This development has sparked curiosity and anticipation among fans, as they eagerly await the debut of Shopify Rebellion in the competitive League of Legends scene.
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Overview
In a major shakeup within the League of Legends esports scene, iconic team TSM (Team SoloMid) is being replaced by Shopify Rebellion in the League Championship Series (LCS). While TSM will continue competing in other regions, this move marks a significant change of guard in the LCS. Shopify Rebellion’s entry into the League of Legends arena is an exciting development, and their acquisition of TSM’s spot in the pro circuit shows their commitment to growing their presence in esports.
Background of TSM
TSM is one of the biggest esports organizations globally and has its origins as a scrappy League of Legends team. With a name that stands for Team SoloMid, referencing the solo player occupying the middle lane in the game, TSM gained immense success in the mid-2010s, becoming one of the most dominant teams in the LCS. Over the years, TSM expanded into other esports, ventured into signing Twitch streamers, and even acquired an esports app.
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Struggles of TSM
Despite their previous success, TSM has faced various challenges recently. Their performance in the LCS has not been as strong, with the exception of an impressive run in 2020. Furthermore, TSM faced internal issues when their CEO and founder, Andy Dinh, was fined and placed on probation by Riot Games, the developer of League of Legends. The investigation revealed a pattern of disparaging and bullying behavior exhibited by Dinh toward TSM staff and players. Additionally, TSM encountered setbacks when their intended partnership with FTX, a crypto company, fell through. These challenges prompted TSM to consider selling their LCS spot and explore opportunities in other regions.
Shopify Rebellion Replacing TSM
The entry of Shopify Rebellion into the LCS signifies a significant transition for the league. Shopify’s Rebellion esports brand will be taking over TSM’s spot in the pro circuit, marking a new era for both organizations. This move demonstrates Shopify’s dedication to expanding its presence in esports, especially in one of the largest esports titles, League of Legends.
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Shopify’s Entry into League of Legends
Shopify Rebellion’s decision to enter the League of Legends scene is a logical progression for the organization as it seeks to establish itself further in the world of esports. Already competing in games such as Dota 2, Valorant, and Rocket League, joining the prestigious LCS represents a significant milestone for the organization. Dario “TLO” Wünsch, representing Shopify Rebellion, expressed excitement and enthusiasm for their entrance into the highly competitive esports arena of League of Legends.
Shopify Rebellion’s Competitions
With their participation in the LCS starting in 2024, Shopify Rebellion will be facing off against some of the most formidable teams in League of Legends. The LCS is known for its intense competition and the high caliber of teams it showcases. Shopify Rebellion will need to bring their A-game and adapt quickly to the fierce battles that await them. However, with their experience in other esports titles, Shopify Rebellion possesses the potential to make a strong impact in the LCS.
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Future Plans of TSM
While TSM is stepping back from the LCS, they have not revealed their exact plans for fielding a new League of Legends team. However, TSM is keen on positioning themselves as a global brand and a movement within the esports community. This suggests that TSM may explore opportunities in other regions, potentially competing in leagues outside of North America. Andy Dinh, TSM’s CEO, is confident that a change in region will reignite their hunger for success and drive them to strive for a world championship title.
TSM’s Global Branding
TSM’s vision extends beyond regional boundaries. They aim to create a global brand that unifies the esports community worldwide, transcending geographical origins. TSM believes that their brand represents solidarity amongst fans from North America, Europe, South America, Asia, and beyond. This emphasis on global branding highlights TSM’s ambition to connect with fans on a global scale and establish a strong presence in various esports markets.
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Other Recent Changes in LCS
The replacement of TSM by Shopify Rebellion is not the only transformation within the LCS. NRG Esports acquired Counter Logic Gaming (CLG) in April, taking over their LCS slot. This change resulted in a major upset in the 2023 LCS summer split championships when the new NRG defeated Cloud9. These recent changes demonstrate the dynamic nature of the esports industry, with teams evolving and organizations making strategic moves to position themselves for success.
Conclusion
The entry of Shopify Rebellion into the LCS by acquiring TSM’s spot marks a significant shift within the League of Legends esports scene. This move not only provides Shopify Rebellion with an opportunity to demonstrate their prowess in the highly competitive world of League of Legends but also presents a fresh start for TSM to explore new horizons in other regions. As both teams embark on their respective paths, the future of esports is poised for further excitement and growth.
Source: https://www.theverge.com/2023/9/20/23883238/league-of-legends-lcs-tsm-replaced-shopify-rebellion
