Thus, the first phase of the most tumultuous Spring season in the history of League of Legends Vietnam has concluded, with the championship once again belonging to GAM Esports. Considering what has transpired this season, it can be said that the playoffs, with a higher level of professionalism and intensity compared to many past seasons, serve as a consolation for the audience of League of Legends Vietnam. Furthermore, although the finals had a significant score gap, the thrilling developments of each match ultimately met the expectations of the audience of VCS.
However, this also means that Spring 2024 VCS witnessed many incredibly unique “firsts” that excited the audience, alongside the lingering “negative specter”. Specifically, for the first time, VCS viewers got to see SofM compete after returning from his “study abroad” in the LPL. At the same time, SofM and Levi had high-stakes confrontations when Vikings Esports faced GAM. Moreover, it was also the first time viewers learned about an unknown player, who only participated in the “grassroots” tournament, making it to the finals of a VCS season – Fireblade. However, there was something even more special from an unexpected name: the AD carry EasyLove.
Accordingly, EasyLove became the first AD carry in the history of Vietnam’s League of Legends to finish the group stage at the bottom of the standings, not winning any matches, yet ultimately crowned champion. This can also be regarded as a “one-of-a-kind” achievement in the history of League of Legends worldwide. This is because teams have almost no precedent for substituting players mid-season, especially when that player comes from a relegated team. Even during the tense pandemic period (2020-2021), no teams had players facing issues that opted to substitute during domestic tournaments. Even if they did, it would have to be a player of equivalent skill.
Of course, for EasyLove, this is not his first championship. However, until now, EasyLove has never been regarded as a top-tier AD carry. Furthermore, GAM is not a team that focuses resources on their AD carries. Therefore, returning and winning the championship with GAM may carry even greater significance than his previous titles.
It’s still uncertain what the future holds for the EasyLove – GAM partnership after Spring 2024 VCS. But for now, the “AD with a salary of 5 million” can smile as he successfully helped his former team defend their championship title.