Boom Esports unexpectedly ended their Dota 2 Pro Circuit 2023 season by being demoted to Division 2 once more after three tours in the previous six months. Even though they achieved outstanding results in Tour 2 Division 2 last month, they were unable to maintain consistency and seemed struggling since the latest 7.33 patch.
Fans of Boom Esports are understandably disappointed by the team’s dismal performance this season, especially given their fantastic run last year in the DPC SEA 2022 and the Gamers Galaxy, and the epic victory in The International 11 when they beat the previous winner, Team Spirit. With such drastic improvement, many expected them to maintain that lineup and develop in the following season.
The winning formula, unfortunately, did not last long. Souliya “Jackky” Khoomphetsavong, Rolen “skem” Gabriel Ong and Timothy “Tims” Randrup decided to leave Boom. In November 2022, John “Natsumi” Vargas, Kenny “Xepher” Deo and Yap “xNova” Jian Wei were signed ahead of the DPC SEA 2023, eventually raising the fans expectations. However, Boom Esports’ results for the rest of the season were nowhere near their previous record. They were badly beaten by the newcomers and relegated twice in Tour 1 and Tour 3.
Their dismal performance prompted strong criticism from fans in social media. Most of them often vented their anger in the live chat in every match. And Boom Esports’ general manager, Marzarian “Owljan” Sahita, is clearly frustrated as well with their recent result.
“This is certainly frustrating; I mean winning and losing is part of the game, but it’s unacceptable. The management, the players, and the coaches are extremely disappointed,” he stated. “After last season, everyone has high expectations, including us, the internal team.”
The situation heated even further when Boom coach Chai “Mushi” Yee Fung brought the team’s consistency and discipline – or lack thereof – in an interview after last week’s match against Talon, sparking rumors that there’s an ongoing crisis in the team. However, Owljan emphasised that Mushi’s response was appropriate and ensured that there is no crisis between the players.
“I have no issue with Mushi’s statement, I think commitment and discipline are crucial in esports,” said Owljan. “I don’t think there’s a crisis going on between the players. However, after seeing our games, I believe we’re still missing an important piece and we need to resolve this issue.”
Some Boom fans who are frustrated with their poor results have been asking the team to make an important transfer like many teams did this season. Owljan said that they are evaluating their performance this season and considering for big changes before the new season starts.
“I can’t reveal our plans any further. We do have some ideas regarding big changes, but we are currently in the evaluation stage. We will come back stronger.”
