Gumayusi Chooses Jersey Number at HLE but Is Closely Related to T1
Unlike most teams in the LCK, HLE has a unique uniform system where players can choose the number printed on their jerseys. Any number can be printed as long as the players feel it holds significant meaning. Recently, HLE’s rookie, Gumayusi, and Kanavi have chosen the numbers 98 and 1 respectively. For Gumayusi, the number 98 represents his jersey at HLE but is closely tied to T1.
Specifically, the number 98 is the date when Gumayusi debuted with T1 (September 8), and on that very day, his champion Caitlyn shined with a perfect KDA: 9/0/8, helping T1 secure a victory. For those who may not know, that match was against Afreeca Freecs – a team that has since become Dplus KIA (DK). Caitlyn also became one of Gumayusi’s signature champions, especially during the period when the meta shifted to a strong 2 AD setup in the Bot Lane.
T1 Will Need to Be Cautious of Their Former AD
In the new season, Riot will be making adjustments to empower AD carries by allowing them to carry up to 7 items, including a separate shoe slot. With AD carries like Gumayusi, who have incredible farming speed and lane prowess, reaching power thresholds after completing quests will be a breeze. At that point, his capabilities will become even more formidable.
Additionally, with changes to warding mechanics, vision, and the removal of certain jungle monsters, AD carries will no longer need to jump into fights too early and will have more time to accumulate resources. With his proficiency in champions like Caitlyn and Aphelios, this playstyle is very suitable for Gumayusi.
After a tumultuous year, Gumayusi has left T1 to join HLE – a team filled with quality names as well. At this juncture, T1 will need to be cautious of their former superstar as the upcoming matchups promise to be intensely heated between T1 and a player who understands their playstyle all too well.