NA LCS Summer 2021 Playoffs Semifinals

Lore & Background

In the summer of 2019, 100 Thieves was still finding its footing on the international stage. The organization had just completed its first full season, and the playoffs represented the ultimate test of their cohesion and talent. Facing Team Liquid, a team with multiple championship titles and deep experience, the atmosphere in the arena was electric with anticipation for an underdog story. The series showcased the raw potential of the 100 Thieves roster, particularly the synergy between their mid-laner and ADC. Despite the eventual loss, the performance demonstrated that the team could compete at the highest level against the region's best. This match is often cited by fans as the moment the organization transitioned from a startup project to a serious esports entity. The legacy of this series lies in its demonstration of resilience. Even when facing a superior opponent in terms of experience, 100 Thieves pushed the series hard, forcing Team Liquid to play their absolute best. It became a foundational memory for the fanbase, illustrating that the path to glory begins with fighting through adversity.

In Their Own Story

The arena lights dimmed as the crowd's roar reached a fever pitch, the tension palpable in the air-conditioned hall. On stage, the 100 Thieves players sat before their monitors, hands hovering over keyboards, eyes locked on the Rift. Across from them, Team Liquid stood ready to defend their title. The silence between games was heavy, broken only by the click of mechanical switches and the strategic whispers of coaches. It wasn't just a match; it was a statement.

Reader's Guide

The context of this series was high-stakes: a chance for the newly formed 100 Thieves to reach their first LCS finals against the perennial powerhouse Team Liquid. The series began with intense back-and-forth action, highlighting the strategic depth of both teams. Key plays included critical team fights in the mid-game where 100 Thieves utilized superior positioning to secure objectives, momentarily shifting momentum. However, Team Liquid's experience in closing out games proved decisive, as they capitalized on small errors to take key maps. This match remains pivotal because it validated 100 Thieves' roster construction and coaching strategy early in their existence. It proved they could hang with the best, setting a benchmark for future seasons. The performance against Liquid became a rallying cry for the organization, establishing a culture of competing at the highest level regardless of the opponent.

Did You Know?

• This was the first time 100 Thieves reached the LCS Playoffs Semifinals as an organization.
• Team Liquid went on to win the NA LCS Summer 2019 championship shortly after this series.
• The series highlighted the early synergy between Doublelift and his new teammates in the ADC role.
• This match is often referenced by analysts as a turning point for the competitive landscape of NA.