Evil Geniuses CEO Nicole LaPointe Jameson steps down amid controversy

Nicole LaPointe Jameson, the CEO of the renowned esports organization Evil Geniuses (EG), has officially announced her departure from the role.

EG has been in the spotlight for all the wrong reasons in the past year following a number of controversies. Jameson, the first African-American woman to lead an esports organization, leaves behind a complicated legacy marked by both triumphs and scandals.

One of the highlights of Jameson’s time at the helm was EG’s recent victory at Valorant Champions 2023. The team’s triumph in the prestigious tournament showcased EG’s commitment to meritocracy, inclusivity, and challenging the status quo.

However, the path to success was far from smooth. EG faced a series of challenges, including allegations of mistreatment within its League of Legends team, involving star player Kyle “Danny” Sakamaki. These allegations prompted Riot Games to initiate an investigation in March 2023, casting a shadow over the organization.

In an interview with DigiDay, Jameson denied that the controversy surrounding Danny had anything to do with her decision to step down. She firmly stated, “I know people want an apology. But, as of now, I have nothing to apologize for.”

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— Evil Geniuses (@EvilGeniuses) August 31, 2023

A historic tenure and a new direction

Jameson’s journey with EG began in 2019 when private equity firm PEAK6 acquired the organization. Her appointment as CEO marked a period of transformation for EG, which saw staff expansion and the acquisition of a League of Legends Championship Series (LCS) franchise slot. Additionally, EG made history by signing the first mixed-roster VALORANT squad in 2021.

Jameson leaves EG with her head held high despite the difficulties and controversy, noting that the company must change to survive in the constantly shifting esports industry. According to her, revenue growth, diversification, and innovation are essential for EG’s success in the future.

While Jameson’s departure marks the end of an era, EG is not without a leader. As Jameson steps down, Chris DeAppolonio, the former Chief Innovation Officer of EG, steps in as the interim CEO. Jameson expressed her trust in DeAppolonio to lead EG to new heights.

Her equity stake in EG ensures that Jameson is still involved in the organization even after her departure. Whether this change in leadership will usher in a new chapter of stability and growth for EG remains to be seen. In the world of esports, where talent and innovation reign supreme, only time will reveal what lies ahead for Evil Geniuses.

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