The League of Legends Japanese scene witnessed a seismic shift in 2024, as SoftBank HAWKS emerged victorious in the League of Legends Japanese League (LJL) finals, dethroning DetonatioN FocusMe (DFM) and bringing an end to their era of dominance.
SoftBank HAWKS Clinches LJL Championship Title
In a decisive 3-0 victory, SoftBank HAWKS secured the LJL championship title by defeating DetonatioN FocusMe in the finals. This victory marks a significant milestone for SoftBank HAWKS and signals a turning point in the competitive landscape of Japanese League of Legends.
DFM fall in the LJL for the first time in 3.5 years, SoftBank Hawks end DFM’s 6 title streak and become champions for the first time!
This team came into LJL in 2020 & failed to deliver on promises, but built over years to finally make good on them. Congrats @ebihuryahurya! https://t.co/oVNhcwx0pX
— Alex ‘Nymaera’ Hapgood↓←→↑↓ (@Nymaera) March 3, 2024
End of DetonatioN FocusMe’s Unrivaled Success
DetonatioN FocusMe, once hailed as the powerhouse of Japanese League of Legends, saw their unparalleled success come to an abrupt end with their defeat in the LJL finals. Prior to this loss, DFM had maintained an unbroken streak of championship victories for three and a half years, establishing themselves as the dominant force in the region.
DFM’s Legacy:
- First Japanese team to reach the group stage of Worlds in 2021.
- Holder of a record-breaking 14 LJL championships.
- Iconic roster featuring veteran players and key contributors to the team’s success.
SoftBank HAWKS’ Redemption and Leadership
The victory of SoftBank HAWKS is attributed to the exceptional leadership of Shunsuke “Evi” Murase, who returned to his native Japan after a modest stint in the League of Legends European Championship (LEC) with Team Heretics.
Evi’s triumphant return to Japan culminated in SoftBank HAWKS’ LJL championship win, marking his 11th title in the league and solidifying his status as one of its most decorated players.
Evi’s Impact:
- Demonstrates the “law of the ex” as Evi leads SoftBank HAWKS to victory following his return to Japan.
- Second most decorated player in LJL history, trailing only Yutapon.
Road to the Mid-Season Invitational (MSI)
Despite their LJL championship win, SoftBank HAWKS must navigate the playoffs of the Pacific Championship Series (PCS) to secure a spot at the Mid-Season Invitational (MSI) in China. With DetonatioN FocusMe and V3 Esports also vying for a chance to represent Japan at the international stage, the competition in the PCS playoffs promises to be fierce.
MSI Qualification:
- SoftBank HAWKS must emerge victorious in the PCS playoffs to qualify for MSI.
- Only the champion of the PCS will have the opportunity to compete at MSI.
Final Thoughts
The LJL finals marked a pivotal moment in the history of Japanese League of Legends, with SoftBank HAWKS’ victory signaling the end of DetonatioN FocusMe’s era of dominance.
As the Japanese scene undergoes a period of transition, all eyes are on SoftBank HAWKS as they aim to secure their place at the Mid-Season Invitational and continue their journey on the international stage.
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