Closer LCS Debut Match Series

Lore & Background

The atmosphere surrounding the debut was electric, blending the casual streetwear aesthetic of the brand with the intense, high-stakes environment of professional League of Legends. This match series served as a proving ground where the team had to demonstrate that they could compete against established LCS veterans immediately upon arrival. It set the tone for the organization's future identity: stylish, confident, and undeniably competitive.

In Their Own Story

The arena lights dimmed, casting a spotlight on the five monitors of the new 100 Thieves bench. A hush fell over the crowd as Closer adjusted his headset, the weight of the black-and-white jersey settling on his shoulders. This wasn't just another game; it was the first breath of a new life for the organization. As the blue screen faded into the Summoner's Rift map, the tension in the air was palpable, a silent promise that 100 Thieves had arrived to stay.

Reader's Guide

The context of this match series was defined by skepticism and high expectations. Many observers wondered if an apparel brand could field a team capable of winning on the LCS stage. The key plays during these initial games were characterized by Closer's aggressive mid-lane dominance, which immediately forced opponents to play around his presence. What made this pivotal for the organization's legacy was not necessarily a single kill or tower taken, but the sheer confidence displayed. 100 Thieves proved they belonged in the room from day one, establishing a culture of professionalism that would define their subsequent years. This debut laid the foundation for future successes and solidified their place as a major player in North American esports.

Did You Know?

• This debut marked the first time 100 Thieves competed in the top-tier North American League of Legends league.
• The 2018 roster featured veteran mid-laner Ryu, not Closer, who joined as jungler in 2020.
• The team's entry into the LCS coincided with a significant expansion of the organization's overall esports portfolio.

The Foundation of a North American Legend

Søren Bjerg, widely recognized by his gamertag Bjergsen, emerged from Denmark to become the definitive face of North American League of Legends. This move marked a pivotal moment as he became only the second player to cross from the EU LCS to the North American scene. His early tenure was not without controversy; he faced a $2,000 fine for poaching talent, yet his on-field performance quickly overshadowed administrative issues. During his inaugural Spring Split with TSM, he secured the MVP award while guiding the team to a runner-up finish against Cloud9. By the Summer Split of that same year, he cemented his status by leading TSM to their first LCS championship title. This period established a trajectory where Bjergsen consistently delivered elite results, setting the stage for seven years as the organization's starting mid laner and defining an era of dominance in the region.

Unparalleled Domestic Dominance

Bjergsen's career is defined by a statistical anomaly rarely seen in competitive gaming: he never finished below fifth place in any split during his prime. Over seven seasons with TSM, he accumulated six domestic titles and reached ten finals, creating a legacy of consistent excellence that few can match. His individual brilliance was formally recognized through numerous accolades, including four regular season MVP awards and three playoff MVP honors. Furthermore, he secured the prestigious First Team All-Pro designation six times, never dropping below fourth place in voting during his career. This sustained high-level performance earned him the reputation as the greatest North American mid laner of all time. His ability to carry teams through critical moments was evident in multiple championship runs against rivals like Cloud9 and Counter Logic Gaming. Even when regular season records fluctuated slightly, such as a fifth-place finish in 2018 Summer, his impact remained undeniable, ensuring TSM remained a perennial contender for the top spot in the league standings.

The International Ceiling

Despite his overwhelming success domestically, Bjergsen's international career highlighted the significant gap between North American and global competition. He qualified for the League of Legends World Championship five times, representing Team SoloMid as the region's top seed on multiple occasions. However, his team struggled to advance past the group stages in four of those appearances, often finishing third or last in their respective groups against teams from Korea, China, and Europe. The 2017 Mid-Season Invitational also proved challenging, with the team placing fifth out of six participants. These results underscored a recurring narrative: while Bjergsen was untouchable within North America, breaking through to win on the world stage remained an elusive goal for him and his teammates throughout his competitive tenure.

Legacy Beyond the Rift

Søren Bjerg's influence extends far beyond his final match in April 2023. He holds the record as the all-time LCS kills leader, a testament to his aggressive playstyle and longevity at the highest level of competition. After retiring from active play, he briefly transitioned into coaching for TSM before returning to the mid lane with Team Liquid and later 100 Thieves, showcasing his enduring passion for the game. His career statistics, including six domestic titles and a perfect record of never finishing below fifth place, have set a new standard for North American players. Widely regarded as the region's greatest talent, his four MVP awards and consistent All-Pro selections serve as benchmarks for future generations. Even after stepping away from professional competition, Bjergsen remains a central figure in the community, symbolizing an era where individual mechanical prowess could consistently drive team success across multiple seasons.