Zellsis Chimes in on Why OpTic & TSM Did Not Make It Into VCT 2023 Franchising

Ever since Riot Games revealed the 30 teams that made it into the three Valorant Champions Tour (VCT) 2023 leagues as part of the new franchising, the order of things in the ecosystem has gone for a toss. Pro players in teams that did not make the franchising have been announcing their free agency for the upcoming Valorant Champions Tour (VCT) 2023 season. Riot Games with a clear mindset only selected teams that shared similar ideals and goals, and as a result most big-name brands and organizations did not make it into the VCT 2023 franchising. Version 1 (V1) player Jordan “Zellsis” Montemurro shared his thoughts on the situation on his stream.

Zellsis’ thoughts on OpTic and TSM not making VCT 2023 franchising

Prominent esports organizations and brands did not make it into the VCT 2023 franchising including OpTic Gaming, Team SoloMid (TSM), and G2 Esports, among many others. Zellsis on a recent stream said that it was not about the Valorant teams and that the decisions were based on the organizations. He added that he called it on OpTic not getting a spot in the franchising. “So far, I’ve called everything. I am a genius.”

Zellsis also pondered about the behind-the-scenes issues that OpTic was facing. “Riot probably does not want to deal with that. A big brand does not equal a good structure. Exactly. Riot wants good-structured organizations. They want marketing, talent development.”

Another viewer in his stream pointed out that OpTic Gaming had reportedly applied for League of Legends franchising and that the organization withdrew. Zellsis said, “Riot has publicly stated that Valorant is their new baby. So there’s no way they are going to take an organization that sold their spot or anything like that.”

Talking about TSM, Zellsis recalled that TSM had issues with Riot Games in terms of ownership and management issues. He added, “When you think of franchising organizations, you need to think of the structure of the org. You need to think of the business side, the marketing side, you need to think of the talent development.”

Riot Games also clearly stated the criteria for franchising teams for VCT 2023. It said the following:

• Organizations who share our [Riot Games] values of always putting fans first, celebrate our diverse community, and are committed to supporting pros

• Organizations who have created a strong connection with fans through engaging content, a compelling brand, and an exciting roster

• Organizations who build for the long-term, with a focus on sustainability

However, this is not the end of the road for the teams that did not get selected for the VCT 2023 franchising model. Over 20 Challengers leagues will run across the world, offering a place for teams to win their region and earn their shot to play in the international leagues through the new Ascension tournaments.