Oxygen Esports' Verno to reportedly join NRG for VCT 2025

According to a report by Sheep Esports, Oxygen Esports Alumnus Andrew “Verno” Maust has reached a verbal agreement with NRG Esports to join the roster for VCT 2025. The 18 year old prodigal initiator was initially part of Oxygen’s Academy program in 2022 and joined the main roster in 2023.

Throughout 2023, Oxygen had a strong showing but could not catch up to the NA leaders in M80 and The Guard. Come 2024, they brought in dapr and rose through the ranks through North America Tier 2. The squad together won the VCL 2024 NA Mid-Season Cup. But lost to TSM during the VCL 2024 NA Playoffs, missing out on VCT 2024: Americas Ascension.

Following the loss, Oxygen Esports disbanded their VALORANT squad. Throughout the two years with the roster, Verno has established himself as a strong initiator, playing alongside some of the best NA talent. He was also the best rated player for Oxygen Esports in 2024.

Joining NRG, Verno has to fill in the big shoes of arguably one of the best initiators of North America. His predecessor, Crashies was let go from NRG a while ago, after a disappointing 2024 season.

The new addition also means the team now has a young core of demon1, s0m and Verno, a drastic contrast to the 2024 squad. NRG will also likely retain the services of FNS and Ethan, creating a well-rounded squad for VCT 2025.

Featured Image Credits: Oxygen Esports YouTube

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