The Tragic Like of James Banks (BankS) and How He Rose Up Against the Challenges

It is more often than not that the biggest personalities turn out to have difficult stories to tell. In the case of Counter Strike broadcaster James “BankS” Banks, his journey intertwined deeply and so intricately with the game he considers his lifeline and salvation.

Resilience in Adversity

BankS’ childhood was spent in London’s low-income public housing system, a challenge that most kids have to live through and overcome. He admittedly had a hard time with a situation that was made even more challenging by a diabetes diagnosis in his youth. However, this became an unexpected turning point, steering his life into the scene that would eventually be a home for him.

His diabetes diagnosis meant that he had to stay home for most of his later childhood years, spending long periods away from school. His father’s decision to buy him a computer led to his discovery of the gaming world, and thus, the young BankS was introduced to Counter Strike.

Early Gaming Days

After creating his Steam account and starting to play Counter Strike in 2003, BankS dedicated a lot of time to the game. He said that it gave him solace and helped him cope better with his health condition and turn his energy towards something positive and enjoyable.

Soon, at just 13 years old, BankS jumped into his first Counter Strike tournament. He lost every match, but did not give up. Instead, it became a reason for him to push harder, lighting up a fire that has since burned brightly. BankS had always said that he knew esports to be his calling long before he became a pro in the scene. The passion evident in his early gaming days likely fueled his path to renown.

BankS Steps Into Counter Strike Esports

BankS started spending less time on Counter Strike in college, when he found it hard to juggle between gaming, classes, and working part-time jobs. Not wanting to let go of gaming completely, he instead switched to Virtua Fighter 5, a 1-vs-1 game that let him practice on his own schedule. This paid off successfully, and even got him a silver medal at the UK qualifiers.

Years after his eventual coming back to playing Counter Strike and making his way to the esports industry, BankS has his big break. He started working with ZOWIE in marketing, and in 2014 became an interviewer at G3 with Gfinity. With the help of other industry veterans, BankS was able to slowly make a name for himself and become the prominent Counter Strike figure we know of today.

Facing His Darkest Hour

I’ve just heard the news that the love of my life passed away…we are still waiting on more information…I don’t know how I feel or what to do…the pain is unbearable. I will never forget the memories we made! She was far too young for this & had so much to give 😭😭😭💔💔💔! pic.twitter.com/Iv7YjutGRT

— James Banks 🇺🇦 (@BanKsEsports) October 27, 2021

After his earlier hardships in his youth, BankS was confronted with the most tragic loss of his life. He was working at the PGL Stockholm Major when he received devastating news; his wife had passed away. BankS described the event and the following months as the hardest period in his life.

In those moments, he was able to keep himself from crumbling by finding strength in his work and his colleagues and the community that gave him support. An incredible display of friendship from s1mple, the championship-winning Natus Vincere’s star player, showed how pros in the esports scene stand together in difficult times. He gave BankS the mouse that he used in the tournament, signifying his support and appreciation for his friend.

BankS had always been outspoken and open about facing depression several times throughout his career, and hoped that his experiences can help other pros who are struggling. The hard trials he had to face had made him grow stronger, and with his passion in esports and a supportive environment, BankS is sure that overcoming difficulties will be easier with a tough mind and outlook. His empathy for players and fellow casters show through his interviews, and has earned him respect in the community.

More Than Just a Job

Being a safe home to turn to and his saving grace from many hardships, BankS treats the gaming world and Counter Strike esports as more than just a job. He said that he barely made any money when he started in competitive play, but he didn’t mind and went on with his dream. While it became a full time job for him, he did not do it for money or fame, but for his genuine passion for gaming and broadcasting for an industry he loves.

Whether it is interviewing pro players or managing emerging teams, BankS brings his genuine self. He allows his experiences to help him turn his job into a showcase of the human side of esports, delving more into personal stories to bring out authenticity in every player.

Standing Against Hardships

From a sick teenager finding refuge in gaming, BankS built a thriving career in esports. His inspiring story of rising up against the challenges is testament to how dedication can turn life’s hardest moments into opportunities for growth.

BankS faced problems that his passion for Counter Strike helped him overcome. It was what helped him get through a rough childhood, served as distraction and escape from his hectic college life, and supported him through losing his beloved. Now 32 and balancing fatherhood and multiple career roles, BankS remains passionate for the world of Counter Strike, and continues to be an inspiring figure for the next generation of esports pros.