NRG back in the LCS after acquiring CLG

Apr 6, 2023

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Los Angeles-based organization NRG has completed the acquisition of CLG, marking its return to the LCS.

NRG is back in League of Legends after a seven-year absence. The team that officially disbanded in 2016 is back on the scene after completing the acquisition of CLG and its LCS slot.

Earlier this week, fans were saddened to learn CLG would be shutting down for good. According to a report by Travis Gafford, employees were informed about the changes on March 3, 2023. At the time, NRG was listed as a potential buyer for the League of Legends team. The acquisition has now been completed.

In the video announcement, Miller confirmed the team is retaining the main LCS and academy rosters as well as all associated coaches and analysts.

Who is the new owner of CLG?

NRG is a well-established brand in the esports sphere. The organization has a Valorant roster competing in the VCT Americas League and owns Overwatch League San Francisco Shock. Notably, NBA legend Shaquille O’Neal is one of NRG’s owners.

NRG competed in the NA LCS between 2015 and 2016. At the time of its disbandment, the organization said they were “working on a plan to stay in League of Legends”. The team failed to secure a slot when the LCS transitioned into a franchised model ahead of the 2018 season, but the NRG name and logo will finally return with the former CLG squad.

In 2021, NRG partnered with CMG.Asia and formed NRG Asia. The joint venture owns GAM Esports, a team currently competing in the Vietnam Championship Series, also known as the VCS. GAM Esports is still in contention for a spot for the 2023 Mid-Season Invitational as Vietnam’s representative.

It is unclear if NRG will retain ownership of GAM Esports since it could be considered a conflict of interest, and it is against the rules for a company to hold ownership in multiple teams.

Miller also confirmed that Madison Square Garden, the previous CLG owner, is now a shareholder at NRG. The team intends to change the name and branding once Riot Games approves it.