Ssumday Embraces New Beginnings with Evil Geniuses in LCS 2023

Kim “Ssumday” Chan-ho is stepping into a new chapter as he joins Evil Geniuses (EG) for the 2023 League of Legends Championship Series (LCS) season. Having spent the previous five years with 100 Thieves, Ssumday describes his transition as a refreshing change, revitalizing his competitive spirit. “It’s kind of like a refresh for my life, even,” he shared after a pivotal victory against TSM during week two of the Spring Split. The new organization, with its youthful energy, has invigorated him in ways he didn't expect.

Ssumday isn’t alone in this transition; former teammate Victor “FBI” Huang also made the switch from 100 Thieves to EG. His presence has added familiarity to the mix, given Ssumday's introverted nature. “I kind of like it because I’m kind of an introverted person,” he remarked. “But if I know a person, they kind of know what I’m thinking even if I don’t talk that much, so it’s really helpful to me.” This shared history seems to ease the adjustment period for him. It’s a smart move by Evil Geniuses to bring in someone he knows well, accentuating the idea that success in esports often relies as much on chemistry and comfort as on skill.

Embracing the Team Dynamic

The transition has been made smoother thanks to the personalities within EG's core trio—jungler Kacper “Inspired” Słoma, mid laner Joseph Joon “jojopyun” Pyun, and support Philippe “Vulcan” Laflamme. Their camaraderie and humor create an atmosphere reminiscent of his time at 100 Thieves. “It’s kind of similar,” Ssumday commented with a chuckle. “They’re trolling a lot and they like joking around a lot, and I’m kind of just listening to it and we’re laughing together.” In esports, team dynamics can make or break a season. A light-hearted atmosphere, combined with professional synergy, often translates into better performance during matches.

In joining EG, Ssumday steps into the shoes of Jeong “Impact” Eon-young, another esteemed figure in LCS history. While both are South Korean top laners synonymous with success, Ssumday recognizes that their leadership styles differ significantly. “I heard that Impact was very talkative and did a lot of leading the team,” he explained. “I’m not the person who is leading a lot.” His ambition, however, is clear: “I want to be ‘more’ than Impact on EG. That’s my goal.” This ambition is striking; it reflects the competitive nature of professional gaming. It’s not just about stepping in and filling a void. Ssumday aims to redefine what success looks like for both himself and Evil Geniuses.

Legacy Among Thieves

Prior to his move, Ssumday celebrated a remarkable legacy with 100 Thieves, marked by a Hall of Fame induction that acknowledged his significant contributions. His tenure included numerous accolades: four domestic finals appearances, an LCS title, and several World Championship qualifications. His image now hangs in the 100 Thieves Compound, a symbol of trust and success built over years. “I was really honored that I could play for one team for a long time and that the team really trusted me,” he reflected. The occasion was made all the more memorable by a humorous encounter with his Uber driver, which brought a personal touch to the celebration. This warm sentiment encapsulates the loyalty and trust that are vital in esports, where players often traverse multiple teams in the pursuit of glory.

Passion and persistence. The foundation of 100 Thieves League of Legends.
Welcome to the Hall of Fame, @Ssumday #LexusPartner | @Lexus pic.twitter.com/hTDqQwjhU9

— 100 Thieves (@100Thieves) November 17, 2022

Evil Geniuses is keen to see Ssumday create a similar legacy at their organization. While he may bring a different approach to the role compared to Impact, the beginning of the 2023 season indicates that with Ssumday, EG has the potential to scale new heights, perhaps even matching or exceeding the achievements of their past rosters that led to their first-ever LCS title. The pressure to perform won’t just come from fans or the organization; it’ll be self-imposed. Ssumday’s ambition to surpass his predecessor could drive him to enhance not just his skills but the entire team’s performance as well.

Implications and Future Outlook

This shift in team dynamics could have significant implications for how Evil Geniuses approaches the season. If Ssumday can meld his own strengths with those of his new teammates, the organization could unlock a new level of synergy and competitiveness. Yes, the immediate pressure is on, but the long-term trajectory looks promising. If you're working in this space, keep an eye on how these team relationships evolve. Will Ssumday's introverted nature hold him back, or will it provide a unique balance to EG's often animated interactions?

If the early signs of the season are anything to go by, there’s reason for optimism. Ssumday’s fresh outlook, combined with the established talent surrounding him, could very well lead to exciting developments for fans and analysts alike. The shared histories among players remind us that connections are essential; they aren’t just about the game but also weave the intricate tapestry of personal and professional growth within esports. So, as the season unfolds, keep watching—there’s plenty more to come.