Na’Vi launches American division NaVi.US with signing of NAR
The Ukranian-based esports team Na'Vi, whose Dota 2 team won the inaugural edition of The International, and Counter-Strike team was considered the best in the world in 2010, has officially launched a new division in the United States.
NaVi's first team in the US will be with the signing of The International 2014 North America qualifier champions North American Rejects. NAR defeated Team Liquid in a thrilling five-game final in the North American qualifiers to solidify themselves a spot at the championship.
NAR's lineup consists of players Braxton 'Brax' Paulson (Captain), Ioannis 'Fogged' Loucas, Steven 'Korok' Ashworth, JingJun 'Sneyking' Wu, and Theeban '1437' Siva.
"We’ve been trying to open North America division for over a year. It’s definitely a huge step forward from Na`Vi’s evolution perspective," says Alexander 'ZeroGravity' Kokhanovskyy, CEO of the Na'Vi Group. "The Dota 2 squad is just the first stage in our plan of Natus Vincere project development in North America. We are going to take on two more squads in other disciplines. Our approach to selection of new players representing Na`Vi.US brand will be quite prudent and demanding."
Na'Vi will field two squads at The International 2014 - and are happy to do so.
"Most people in the community see North American Dota as something transient, temporary and sub-par," says new Na'Vi.US Captain Paulson. "We're here to change that mentality, and prove that the American Dota scene has a lot to offer, in both talent and personality. We're immensely proud to be joining one of the most storied organizations in Dota 2, and we're ready to live up to that pride."
Wu adds his excitement on joining such a prestigious name in the Dota community.
"I think the name Na’Vi summons an image of unparalleled success and excellence," he said. "We will strive to live up to that excellence, and create an incredible legacy of our own. We have a long-lasting commitment not only to the community, but to each other as teammates."
The North American Rejects were reportedly in talks with Counter Logic Gaming shortly after winning the TI4 qualifier's to become the team's Dota 2 squad. After an initial verbal agreement between CLG and NAR representatives for the deal to go through, talks broke down as NAR increased their demands. CLG management stepped away from the deal thereafter.
This weekend's The Summit will be the first LAN event that will feature both Na'Vi squads competing at once, held at Beyond The Summit's studios in Los Angeles.
