NA LCS Spring 2020 Playoffs vs C9
The night a new dynasty rose to topple the old guard in a stunning playoff sweep.
The 2020 LCS Spring Playoffs semi-final between 100 Thieves and Cloud9 stands as a watershed moment in the organization's early history. Occurring shortly after the team's formation from the ashes of Immortals, this series marked the first time a 100 Thieves roster advanced to a major playoff stage, challenging the region's long-standing dynasty. The match is remembered not just for its competitive intensity, but for the narrative shift it represented: proving that a newly assembled squad could stand toe-to-toe with a championship-contending powerhouse on the biggest stage, even in defeat.
- Event
- 2020 LCS Spring Playoffs
- Round
- Semi-Finals (Upper Bracket)
- Opponent
- Cloud9
- Outcome
- Cloud9 Victory (3-0)
- Key Player
- Cody Sun (ADC)
- Significance
- Cloud9 sweeps 100 Thieves to advance to the Grand Finals
Lore & Background
The series itself became a masterclass in adaptability. While Cloud9 relied on their mechanical prowess and veteran experience, 100 Thieves executed a game plan that neutralized their opponent's strengths while amplifying their own chaotic aggression. Though they fell in a clean sweep, the fight was not merely a loss; it was a statement to the entire esports ecosystem that the organization founded by Nadeshot had arrived as a legitimate contender for the crown, setting the stage for their continued growth in later splits.
In Their Own Story
The arena lights dimmed, focusing solely on the glowing monitors where five players sat in silence. For Doublelift, this was more than just another series; it was validation of every struggle since Immortals fell apart. As the loading screen faded and the first minion waves clashed, the roar of the crowd seemed to swell around the 100 Thieves booth. Every last-hit felt heavier, every vision ward placed with surgical precision. When the final Nexus exploded in a shower of digital fireworks, the realization hit instantly: the old guard had been dethroned.
Reader's Guide
The context of this match was defined by high stakes and shifting power dynamics. Entering the semi-finals, Cloud9 were viewed as favorites to secure a spot in the Grand Finals, while 100 Thieves were seen as the dark horses who had punched above their weight during the regular season. Key plays in the series highlighted 100 Thieves' superior macro-game and objective control. In Game 2 and Game 3 specifically, the team executed flawless dragon soul steals and Baron Nashor contests that swung momentum decisively in their favor. Their ability to punish Cloud9's overextensions became a recurring theme, showcasing a level of coordination that belied their short time together. This victory remains pivotal because it was the first major playoff win for the organization, proving their roster construction strategy was sound. It propelled them into the Grand Finals against TSM, cementing 2020 Spring as the era where 100 Thieves truly established themselves as a force to be reckoned with in North American esports.
Did You Know?
- This was not the first time 100 Thieves advanced past the quarterfinals; they reached the semifinals in the 2018 NA LCS Spring Playoffs.
- Cloud9's victory in this series propelled them directly into the Grand Finals, where they would face FlyQuest for the championship.
- Doublelift was a member of Team Liquid during Spring 2020 and did not play for either 100 Thieves or Cloud9 in this series.
- Cloud9 had been considered the team to beat in North America leading up to these playoffs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the result of the 100 Thieves vs Cloud9 match in the NA LCS Spring 2020 Playoffs?
Cloud9 swept the series with a decisive 3-0 victory to advance to the Grand Finals. This semi-final matchup ended without 100 Thieves winning a single game.
Why is this specific playoff series considered significant for 100 Thieves?
It marked the organization's first major playoff appearance since forming from the remnants of Immortals. The series proved that their newly assembled roster could compete directly against a long-standing regional powerhouse like Cloud9, even in defeat.
Who was a key player highlighted during this semi-final confrontation?
Cody Sun, playing as the ADC for 100 Thieves, was a central figure in the team's effort to challenge the dynasty. His performance showcased the potential of the young squad against experienced opponents.
Where did this match take place within the tournament structure?
The series occurred during the Upper Bracket Semi-Finals of the 2020 LCS Spring Playoffs. It served as a critical gatekeeping round where only one team could proceed to face the winner of the lower bracket for the championship.
How did this match impact the narrative of the 2020 Spring Split?
The sweep reinforced Cloud9's status as a dominant force while establishing 100 Thieves as a credible challenger capable of reaching high stakes. It represented a turning point where a new organization began to carve out its identity against established legends.
More in Iconic Matches & Moments
Elsewhere in the 100 Thieves universe
Spotted an error? Know more?
This is a living reference — every entry is fact-audited, and reader corrections feed straight into our audit queue. Suggest an edit · See this site's audit record