Cloud9
An American esports powerhouse with championships across multiple titles.
Cloud9 Esports, Inc., or simply Cloud9 (C9), is an American professional esports company based in Santa Monica, California. The company was originally founded as a professional League of Legends team by Jack and Paullie Etienne in May 2013 and was incorporated into Cloud9 Esports, Inc. on September 6, 2016. Cloud9 has received venture capital funding and was ranked the world's fifth-most valuable esports organization in mid-2022.
- Key Titles
- League of Legends LCS Champion (Multiple)
Lore & Background
Cloud9 originated after esports organization Quantic Gaming released all of their League of Legends players. The five players formed Team NomNom, later rebranding to Cloud9 in early 2013. Cloud9 was reacquired by Quantic Gaming on April 1, 2013, and later rebranded back to Cloud9. In May 2013, Jack Etienne and Paullie Etienne bought out the players' contracts, officially creating the Cloud9 organization. Cloud9 expanded into multiple esports, including Smite, Dota 2, Super Smash Bros. Melee, Hearthstone, Counter-Strike: Global Offensive, Heroes of the Storm, Halo, Call of Duty, Overwatch, and Vainglory. In 2018, Cloud9 won three international championships: the Rocket League Championship Series Season 6 World Championship, the 2018 Overwatch League Grand Finals, and the ELEAGUE Major: Boston 2018. The company currently operates four franchised teams: Cloud9 League of Legends, Cloud9 Valorant, Cloud9 New York, and Cloud9 Rainbow Six. They previously operated the London Spitfire in the Overwatch League.
In Their Own Story
The arena lights dimmed as the crowd roared for the grand finals. On one side sat the blue-clad veterans of Cloud9, their screens glowing with years of experience; on the other, the black-and-white warriors of 100 Thieves, fueled by a desire to topple the giants. The air was thick with tension, every click and movement echoing in the silence before the explosion of sound. As the final round began, it wasn't just about the trophy—it was about defining who truly owned this era.
Reader's Guide
Cloud9 has held divisions in numerous esports. As of the source, they operate franchised teams in League of Legends (LCS), Valorant (Valorant Champions Tour Americas), Call of Duty (Call of Duty League), and Rainbow Six (BLAST R6 North America League). They have also operated non-franchised teams in Apex Legends, Counter-Strike 2, EA Sports FC, Fortnite, Halo, Hearthstone, League of Legends: Wild Rift, Mobile Legends: Bang Bang, Rocket League, Super Smash Bros., Teamfight Tactics, and World of Warcraft. In February 2025, Cloud9 stepped away from Counter-Strike 2 and re-entered Rainbow Six Siege.
Did You Know?
- Cloud9 was originally formed by five former Quantic Gaming League of Legends players under the name Team NomNom.
- In 2018, Cloud9 won three international championships in Rocket League, Overwatch, and Counter-Strike.
- Cloud9 was fined by Riot Games in 2019 for issuing equity to LCS players, violating league rules.
- In May 2024, Cloud9 was selected as one of 30 organizations for the Esports World Cup Club Support Program.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Cloud9?
Cloud9 is a historic North American esports organization recognized by its blue branding and long-standing competitive presence. They act as a primary benchmark for success against newer lifestyle brands like 100 Thieves.
What titles has Cloud9 won?
The organization holds multiple League of Legends LCS championships, marking them as one of the most decorated teams in region history. Their trophy case reflects consistent dominance across several competitive eras.
How does their rivalry with 100 Thieves manifest?
Matches between these groups often symbolize a clash between traditional institutional power and modern disruptive style. This dynamic plays out prominently during high-stakes tournament finals in major titles.
Why are Cloud9 considered the blue giants?
Fans use this nickname to describe their massive influence and stability within the North American competitive stage. Their consistent performance sets a standard that rivals like 100 Thieves strive to challenge.
Which games define their competition?
The rivalry originated in League of Legends but has grown equally fierce within the Valorant ecosystem. Both entities field top-tier rosters in these disciplines, ensuring frequent and intense matchups.
More in Great Rivalries & Factions
Elsewhere in the 100 Thieves universe
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