The Rise of Team BDS: Proving the Depth of European League of Legends
Team BDS is making waves in the League of Legends European Championship (LEC), with a roster that has flown under the radar. Despite being a relatively new addition to the league, Team BDS is determined to showcase the depth of talent in European League of Legends, even in the shadow of other superstar-filled teams.
In their debut year in the LEC, BDS built their 2022 roster by combining players from the French regional league and existing LEC talent. Unlike other teams that had established cores of players, BDS had to start from scratch. From young players looking to make their mark to experienced names wanting to prove themselves, BDS is determined to show that they are greater than the sum of their parts.
Leading the way for BDS is Fabian “Grabbz” Lohmann, the former head coach of G2 Esports. Grabbz, known for his success with G2, made the move to BDS to start a new chapter in his career. With a resume that includes LEC trophies, an MSI title, and a World Championship finals appearance, Grabbz is starting from the ground up with BDS.
“I wanted to work with a young roster and an organization that believes in building something with unproven players,” Grabbz said. “These players have the chance to prove themselves in the LEC.”
BDS is not just relying on young rookies like Cinkrof and xMatty. The team’s more experienced players, including top laner Adam, mid laner Nuclearint, and support Limit, also have something to prove. Adam, the standout rookie of 2021, aims to build upon his success from last season, while Nuclearint and Limit are seeking redemption after their 10th place finish with Schalke 04.
“No player is here to get subbed out if they perform well,” Grabbz emphasized. “We believe in their potential and they have the chance to prove themselves again.”
Early-season Results and Long-term Goals
After a slow start to the season, BDS bounced back in the third week of the Spring Split with crucial wins against Astralis and SK Gaming. While a playoff spot would be nice, BDS is focused on the long-term development of their core players. Grabbz, who oversaw G2’s successful superteam in 2021, has shifted his focus to the potential of his new players.
Grabbz identified gameplay and relationship development as his main challenges in this new environment. BDS has worked hard to improve their fundamentals, such as wave control and map movement. The team’s early-game performance has drastically improved, leading the LEC in gold difference at 15 minutes during the third week of play.
In addition to in-game improvements, Grabbz is prioritizing relationship development with his players. Understanding their reactions to criticism and communicating effectively are vital aspects for the team’s growth.
Keeping Expectations Realistic
BDS and their coaching staff understand that success takes time. While many coaches set championship-level expectations from the start, BDS knows they have to work hard to catch up with the top teams in the LEC. Grabbz considers Vitality and Fnatic as the teams to beat, and BDS does not expect to surpass them immediately.
“If we finish in fourth or fifth place, it’s a solid foundation for this year,” Grabbz said. “BDS aims to contend for Worlds in the long term.”
BDS will face off against Grabbz’s former team, G2, on Feb. 4, as they continue their journey in the LEC.
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