One of the strengths of T1, which helps them execute their playstyle effectively whether on the Blue side or Red side, is the diverse champion pool of their players, especially in the Bottom Lane duo Gumayusi – Keria. This is arguably the biggest difference between T1 and the opponents they have defeated. Specifically, Gumayusi has used a total of 10 different champions just after 12 games. Meanwhile, Keria is no slouch either, as this Support player has also utilized 6 champions throughout those games.
However, Gumayusi himself confirmed in a recent interview that there are still many options he has yet to utilize. The T1 AD Carry shared: “Even though I have used many champions in the Bottom Lane since the Swiss round, I still have some other options. I am ready to use them in upcoming matches, depending on the situation.”
The fact that Gumayusi – Keria is a duo with a wide champion pool has been evidenced many times before. In fact, this is a defining strength of the duo. Keria is the player who has utilized the AD Carry Support playstyle most effectively in the League of Legends scene since Spring 2022, significantly contributing to T1’s longest undefeated streak in League of Legends history. As for Gumayusi, nearly every AD Carry matchup can be effectively played by this player. For example, Jhin made a remarkably successful debut at this World Championship in the hands of the T1 AD Carry.
Moreover, having a broad champion pool allows T1 to execute counters against popular meta champions often used, such as Zeri, Kai’Sa, Aatrox, and Xayah. For instance, in recent matches against representatives from the LPL, T1 remained unfazed when opponents banned their meta champions. The appearances of Ashe or Bard in Keria’s hands proved to be stronger and more effective than meta champions like Alistar or Lulu.
With an expanded champion pool, combined with the necessary caution, T1 has shown significant improvement compared to the 2022 World Championship. At this point, it seems that the T1 players have only one goal left: to win the World Championship, because if not now, then there may not be another chance.