Several VALORANT Players Await Payment from Nerd Street Gamers
Many VALORANT players in North America claim that they have not received payment from tournament organizer Nerd Street Gamers. Last year, Nerd Street Gamers partnered with VALORANT developer Riot Games for the North American VALORANT Champions Tour, but several pros and members of the broadcast talent team have yet to receive their payment.
Players Speak Out
Some players have spoken out publicly about the lack of prize money payment, while others have shared their experiences anonymously with due to fears of reprisal in the esports industry. Former TSM Academy player Timothy “ZK” Ly started the discussion on Twitter, revealing that he has not been paid for his team’s second-place finish at the Nerd Street Summer Championship 2022 Finals in August.
Trouble for Commentators
Some commentators who worked with Nerd Street Gamers are also awaiting payment. One commentator is owed thousands in salary payments after four months, while another had to constantly message the tournament organizer to receive payment four months late. In December, a third commentator voiced their struggle with receiving payment, questioning who would ensure that missed and delayed payments for talent and teams would be paid.
Additional Players and Coaches Await Payment
Other players and coaches, including the former Ghost Gaming core, have confirmed that they are still waiting for payment. Oxygen esports player Yassin “Reduxx” Aboulalazm stated that his organization is owed $2,000. Shopify Rebels player Benita Novshadian is awaiting payment from two events: Game Changers Championship NA Series 2 and 3.
Payment Delays for Teams
The former manager of Teal Seam Vapor revealed that his team has not received their $1,250 prize money for finishing in the top eight of an event. Another team, VIRTUOSO, received their payment after persistent reminders.
learned about the lack of payments in December but was unable to reach Riot Games for comment due to the company’s holiday break.
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