Photographer Robert Paul and Blizzard Entertainment

Overwatch League has proven incredibly successful over its first two seasons. A 90 million dollar deal with Twitch, appearances on ABC, sold out arenas in New York and Philadelphia, and that’s just scratching the surface. However, as successful as the league has been, it may just be the tip of the iceberg.

As we move into season 3, for the first time ever, a professional esports league will run home and away matches full time. We’ve known this would be the case since the league’s inception, but the first two seasons took place in Los Angeles. This year however, all 20 teams will be putting down roots in their home cities.

We got to ask members of the Houston Outlaws how they felt about competing in their home city, and this is what they had to say.

Houston Outlaws Rawkus after winning Overwatch World Cup with Team USA

Photo By Carlton Beener/Blizzard Entertainment

You’ve been playing & living in L.A. for the last couple years. What excites you most about moving to Houston?

Harsha (Coach) – “I miss how spacious Houston is and the family and friends I have there. “

SPREE (Tank) – “The city itself, their restaurants and architecture. I’m fascinated with space, which makes me really curious what Houston can teach me about it. Exceptional tasty BBQ which I know Texas is very well known for. Going out in t-shirts every day. Most importantly, the fans. I’m super hyped up to meet them, be close to them and play in our home stadium. Just thinking about the supportive shouts already gives me goosebumps.”

Hydration (DPS) – “The food, I hear mexican food and steaks are all over the place.”

What does it mean to you to be an ambassador for Houston and Texas?

Rawkus (Support) – “pretty big i’d say there’s a lot of people that look up to me so I really want to be able to give it my all and be somewhat of a role model”

Danteh (DPS) – “It means a lot, I’m excited to represent Houston and Texas in the overwatch league. “

SPREE (Tank) – “I appreciate it because it’s entertaining to be a part of this community. I love the thrill of being a bad ass and I feel that we have the best logo and color in the league. There’s so many loyal fans and I’m proud to be supported by them, it’s always a comfortable sensation when I see them on stage, on social media or from videos where they support us. Feels like family. Knowing that there’s fans from Houston or Texas coming across the world to see us play is such a admirable sensation.”

Hydration (DPS) – “It means a lot to me to represent Houston, the superior Texas team , and to play for all the fans.”

2019-07-25 – Overwatch League 2019 Stage 4 / Photo: Robert Paul for Blizzard Entertainment

What message would you give to your new home fans?

Rawkus (Support) – “Next year is about to be really exciting, we’re gonna do some great things and we’ve made some great additions!”

Danteh (DPS) – “Thank you for all the support, it means so much to us. I’m excited to meet you all.”

Harsha (Coach) – “Trust me and let’s win together. “

SPREE (Tank) – “You fans are making my dream a reality and I can’t thank you enough for that. New or old, I love all my fans. I feel fired up of excitement to play again on stage because I’m confident for season 3 with the current changes. At the home event, I hope I get to meet every single one of you. My goal is to make you guys proud and I wish that I can make this true for all of you.See you guys there!!”

Hydration (DPS) – “As a new player for the Houston Outlaws I can’t wait to play in front of all the fans at the home stand games and bring them some wins.”

Related Articles:

Rawkus on Winning the Overwatch World Cup

Harsha Bandi On Being Part Of Team USA

Blizzard Announces Overwatch 2, No Release Details





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