Several teams are preparing for a new VALORANT competitive cycle. Some teams want to reinforce themselves, while others aim for a complete overhaul. 100 Thieves is apparently part of the second group.
100 Thieves separates from its General Manager”ddk”
It turns out that Daniel “ddk” Kapadia, VALORANT’s general manager at 100 Thieves, parted ways with the organization on July 31. For many, ddk’s departure from 100T indicates that the organization wants to overhaul its team to participate in VCT 2024.
The announcement of ddk’s departure comes a few weeks after the 2023 season of 100 Thieves ended. Recall that 100T lost to Sentinels two weeks ago, which meant the organization’s exit from the VCT Americas Last Chance Qualifier. Consequently, 100T was no longer eligible to compete for the Champions. For people who don’t know, the VCT Champions 2023 will have the largest prize pool in the history of VALORANT.
Now, ddk’s departure makes a lot of sense if 100T has plans to let go of a few players who have not performed excellently in the franchise’s first year. It is important to note that the previous general manager signed five of the six players. Among these players are:
- Sean “bang” Bezerra
- Derrek Ha
- Brenden “stellar” McGrath
- Zander “thwifo” Kim
- Matthew “Cryocells” Panganiban
With the announcement of this split, many community members believe that 100 Thieves will attempt to make changes for the upcoming season. Mike’s departure may also occur before the start of VCT 2024. It is important to note that this is only speculation. Recall that teams will begin making additional changes after VALORANT Champions 2023 ends on August 26.
Today we part ways with @ddkesports
Kind and professional — we'll always be grateful for the structure that Daniel brought to our VALORANT program as General Manager. pic.twitter.com/IZZlfoai7e
— 100 Thieves VALORANT (@100T_VAL) July 31, 2023
Ddk’s move to 100 Thieves
Since March 2022, Ddk has been a member of 100 Thieves and has played a key role within the organization. ddk, since his arrival on the team, was a key pillar in the team’s transformation, along with head coach Sean Gares and assistant coach Michael “Mikes” Hockom.
The playoffs at the VCT LOCK//IN So Paulo held in February 2023, and the victory at the Red Bull Home Ground three held in December 2022 have been 100 Thieves’ biggest accomplishments while led by ddk.
Comments from ddk on his departure from 100 Thieves
Following the announcement of the General Manager’s departure from the team, ddk issued a statement saying:
“While I am sad that I will not have the opportunity to carry forward all the valuable lessons from this year to continue building the program, I am extremely grateful for all the people I have connected with and the value those relationships will provide long-term in the future.”
Next, ddk stated that he would reveal his plans regarding his situation.