Cloud9
An American professional esports company based in Santa Monica, California.
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.
Quick Facts
- Key titles
- League of Legends LCS Champion (Multiple)
Lore & Background
The team that would become Cloud9 originated after esports organization Quantic Gaming released all of their League of Legends players, these being Balls (An Van Lee), Meteos (William Hartman), Hai (Hai Du Lam), Sneaky (Zachary Scuderi) and LemonNation (Daerek Hart). Afterward, all five players formed their own team under the moniker Team NomNom, later rebranding to Cloud9 in early 2013. Cloud9 was then reacquired by Quantic Gaming on April 1, 2013, and later rebranded the team back to Cloud9. The team then changed hands again in May 2013, as former Team SoloMid manager Jack Etienne and Paullie Etienne bought out the contracts of the players for less than $20,000, officially creating the Cloud9 organization.
Reader's Guide
Cloud9 has held divisions in numerous esports throughout its existence. The company currently operates four franchised teams: Cloud9 League of Legends of the League Championship Series (LCS), Cloud9 Valorant of the Valorant Champions Tour Americas, Cloud9 New York in the Call of Duty League and Cloud9 Rainbow Six in the BLAST R6 North America League. They previously operated the London Spitfire in the Overwatch League. They also operate or have 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.
Did You Know?
- Cloud9 won three international championships in 2018: the Rocket League Championship Series Season 6 World Championship, the 2018 Overwatch League Grand Finals, and the ELEAGUE Major: Boston 2018.
- Cloud9 was ranked the world's fifth-most valuable esports organization in mid-2022.
- Cloud9 received series A funding in March 2017 and series B funding in 2018.
Frequently Asked Questions
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
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