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G2 Esports Joins VCT Americas with Former The Guard VALORANT Roster
Kaustavmani Choudhury
Kaustavmani Choudhury
23 Aug, 2023, 09:46
|Last updated: 11 Apr, 2025, 07:15
In a thrilling development for VALORANT fans, G2 Esports has officially signed the majority of the former The Guard VALORANT roster, securing a two-year spot in the VCT Americas league. This move marks G2 Esports' long-awaited entry into the top tier of North American VALORANT esports.
The Roster Lineup
G2 Esports has successfully acquired previous The Guard's line-up and promotion spot. The G2 VCT 2024 squad will feature Jonah “JonahP” Pulice, Michael “neT” Bernet, Trent "trent" Cairns, Jacob “valyn” Batio, and coach Josh “JoshRT” Lee. These players have inked two-year deals with the organization, solidifying their commitment to G2 for the foreseeable future.
However, one crucial spot on the roster remains undecided. Ian ‘tex’ Botsch, who declared on September 10 that he was embarking on a quest for a new team, will be the sole player not joining G2. The team is currently in the process of assessing its off-season choices for his replacement.
A Competitive Marketplace
The acquisition of The Guard roster was no easy feat for G2, as they faced stiff competition from approximately 17 other esports organizations, all vying for the opportunity to sign these talented players. This fierce competition comes with it's fair share of benefits. The major one being a secured 2-year spot in VCT Americas 2024 season. As The Guard had won Ascension and earned the promotion spot. But the organization managed to fumble the bag, and failed to comply with the VALORANT Team Participation agreement. Which led to them being barred from participating in VCT Americas 2024 season.
The Guard and G2
G2's journey to secure a spot in VCT Americas has been a year-long endeavor. The organization explored various avenues to reach the top tier of VALORANT esports, including Ascension through the 2023 NA Challengers campaign, a potential move to China, acquiring an entire organization, and partnering with The Guard.
After Riot Games gave The Guard players the green light to explore other options, G2 reached out to them promptly, sealing the deal. This gives The Guard players their deserved spot to play in the VCT Americas 2024 season.
Overcoming Controversy
G2's path to VCT Americas was not without its challenges. The organization's previous attempt to join the league in 2022 was marred by controversy. Which led to a reversal of Riot's decision. This controversy arose from G2 founder Carlos Rodríguez's public association with controversial influencer Andrew Tate.
On the other side, The Guard players were left devastated. The players had to suffer the consequences of the Organizations' halfhearted measures. Even though they had won the VCT Americas Ascension 2023. The organizations' fumbles could cost the players the spot in the 2024 league.
However, with a renewed commitment to the league and its fans, G2 has successfully secured its spot in VCT Americas. They managed to win the signing race for The Guard, and managed to give the players another chance. While also putting their badge on the team. This is a win-win situation for both parties.
A Bright Future
As the new G2 Esports embarks on its journey in VCT Americas, fans can look forward to exciting engagement opportunities. The organization plans to connect with fans through the league, Masters, and Champions events, offering watch parties and digital items. G2 and their players are eager to be a part of the VALORANT esports community. And is determined to show everyone that they have earned their place in the league through exceptional gameplay.
Read More: VCT 2024 Rostermania tracker.
Featured Image Source: Valorant Esports
