Who Left OpTic Texas? A Comprehensive Look at Roster Changes and Departures
OpTic Texas, a prominent force in the Call of Duty League (CDL), has seen a fair share of player departures and roster shake-ups. In short, over the past couple of years, several notable names have left the team for a variety of reasons. These include Brandon “Dashy” Otell, Inderwir “iLLeY” Dhaliwal, Seth “Scump” Abner, Daniel “Ghosty” Rothe, and Cuyler “Huke” Garland. These departures, while sometimes surprising, have been significant in shaping the current OpTic Texas roster. Let’s delve deeper into each of these key changes.
Key Departures from OpTic Texas
Brandon “Dashy” Otell
Dashy’s departure was one of the most talked-about roster changes for OpTic Texas. Despite his undeniable talent, Dashy was dropped from the team in August 2022 ahead of the 2023 season. The decision was primarily due to ongoing attitude problems, as confirmed by both Rambo and Scump. While his skill was never in question, the team felt that his attitude was negatively impacting the squad’s performance and overall environment. It’s important to note that players are typically dropped for two reasons: talent issues or attitude problems, and in Dashy’s case, it was the latter. It’s also worth noting that Dashy eventually rejoined the roster for the 2024 season.
Inderwir “iLLeY” Dhaliwal
Following a disappointing 4th-place finish at the 2022 Championship, OpTic Texas announced the departure of iLLeY alongside Dashy in August 2022. Initially, this was a surprise to the community, as iLLeY was a core part of the team. He was eventually replaced by Ghosty. iLLeY has since announced that he was a free agent, tweeting “Restricted F/A, bang my line if you want to win.” He is currently playing for Seattle Surge. His departure marked a significant change in the team’s dynamics, making way for newer talent and strategies.
Seth “Scump” Abner
A true legend of the Call of Duty scene, Seth “Scump” Abner announced his immediate retirement from professional play. This was a considerable blow to OpTic Texas and its fanbase. Scump had previously stated he would retire at the end of the season, however, his decision came as a surprise, especially because it was effective immediately. His retirement marked the end of an era and left a massive gap in the team’s roster that needed filling. He remains an iconic figure in OpTic’s history.
Daniel “Ghosty” Rothe
While Ghosty was initially brought in to replace iLLeY, he also eventually departed from OpTic Texas. This roster change came in late June, shortly before Ghosty and Huke left. He initially filled an important role, but due to further roster decisions, his time on OpTic Texas was limited. His move exemplifies the dynamic nature of esports rosters.
Cuyler “Huke” Garland
Huke’s departure occurred at the same time as Ghosty, in late June, which further highlights a significant restructuring within OpTic Texas. Huke was part of the team’s effort to bring in new talent, however, his stay was relatively short. Like Ghosty, his exit was part of a larger picture of the team seeking the perfect combination of players.
FAQs About OpTic Texas Departures
1. Why did OpTic Texas drop Dashy?
Dashy was dropped due to ongoing attitude issues, which the team believed were hindering team performance. While he possessed immense talent, his behavior was considered problematic.
2. Why did iLLeY leave OpTic Texas?
iLLeY was dropped from the roster, the reasons for his departure were not fully disclosed by the organization, however, there was speculation about team dynamics and performance.
3. Who replaced iLLeY on OpTic Texas?
Daniel “Ghosty” Rothe replaced iLLeY on the OpTic Texas roster. This move was made to bring in new talent and change the team’s dynamic.
4. Why did Scump retire from OpTic Texas?
Seth “Scump” Abner retired, effectively ending his career with OpTic Texas. His decision was made known at a private retirement party he hosted.
5. Why did Ghosty and Huke leave OpTic Texas?
The departures of Ghosty and Huke were part of a significant roster restructuring by OpTic Texas. They left in late June as a result of performance and team dynamics.
6. Who is on the current OpTic Texas roster?
The current OpTic Texas roster for 2024 includes Kenneth “Kenny” Williams, Amer “Pred” Zulbeari, Anthony “Shotzzy” Cuevas-Castro, and Brandon “Dashy” Otell.
7. Who does iLLeY play for now?
Indervir “iLLeY” Dhaliwal is currently playing for the Seattle Surge.
8. Who is the new coach for OpTic Texas?
Damon “Karma” Barlow, a legendary Call of Duty player, is the new coach for OpTic Texas.
9. Why did Nadeshot leave OpTic?
Nadeshot felt that staying with OpTic was hindering his earning potential in his younger years. He moved to LA, which he later regretted.
10. What led to the initial break up of the OpTic Roster?
The initial breakup of the OpTic roster was due to poor performance in World War II which lead to a split within the team.
11. How did OpTic and Envy merge?
Envy Gaming acquired the OpTic Gaming brand as part of a merger in November 2021. This led to the formation of OpTic Texas.
12. Why was Envy rebranded to OpTic?
Over time, OpTic branding was applied across all of the organization’s teams, primarily due to it being a more established and popular brand.
13. Is ZLaner a member of OpTic?
Zack “ZLaner” Lane is a content creator for OpTic Gaming, not a player on the OpTic Texas roster.
14. How old is Drazah?
Drazah, a professional Call of Duty player for Atlanta FaZe, is 22 years old.
15. Why is it called OpTic Texas?
The team was rebranded to OpTic Texas following the merger of Envy and OpTic Gaming, to represent their connection to the Dallas area.
Conclusion
The roster changes at OpTic Texas, though sometimes disruptive, are a constant in the competitive world of esports. From the controversial departure of Dashy to the surprise retirement of Scump, these moves have reshaped the team’s identity and potential. Understanding the reasons behind these departures provides valuable insight into the complexities of managing a successful esports team. With new talent joining and the old guard stepping down or moving on, the future of OpTic Texas will be interesting to watch.