Houston-based Clutch Gaming pulled off a massive upset in the North American League of Legends Championship Series, defeating Team SoloMid 3-1 in the quarterfinals of the Spring Split playoffs. And, thanks to Cannon member Mainline, dozens of the biggest CG fans in Houston were able to witness the historic victory together.
Esports has already seen exponential growth around the world, and Houston is no different. Over 700 people packed the main Cannon warehouse in January for an Overwatch Watch Party for the Houston Outlaws’ opening match, and while Sunday’s crowd was less in size, the high stakes of the quarterfinal showdown created an equally electric atmosphere.
Follow your instincts
The underdog CG team got off to a slow start, dropping Game 1 before evening the tally at 1-1 thanks to a strong Game 2 performance from LirA. After that, it was all Clutch Gaming, as they finished the match 3-1 and left Team SoloMid absent from the championship round for the first time in team history.
Mainline, a global leader in esports whose custom web and mobile platforms are revolutionizing the community and tournament hosting aspects of gaming, worked closely with Clutch Gaming to plan the event, and both groups were thrilled with the turnout.
“Seeing the Houston Rockets dominating in traditional sports, and now seeing their esports team coming into their own in League of Legends, just shows how special this city really is, and we were thrilled to have the opportunity to be a part of it,” said Brandon Spearman, Head of Esports for FanReact and Mainline.
Next up for Clutch Gaming and Mainline? A showdown with fellow league newcomer 100 Thieves on Sunday at 1:30 p.m. CST, again broadcast live at The Cannon. The event is open to the public and we look forward to continuing to provide opportunities for Houston’s esports community to come together.