Zikz is ready to join 100 Thieves as new Head Coach

Former assistant coach of reigning VCT Champions 2023 champions Evil Geniuses, Tony “Zikz” Gray, is ready for his new adventure in the VALORANT pro scene as the new Head Coach of 100 Thieves.

These reports come on the heels of Zikz’s confirmed departure from the Evil Geniuses roster and are also the first move 100T would make this offseason.

It is no secret that 100T’s 2023 season was far from ideal and successful, so, normally, the team would make changes for the next season. However, after several days this offseason, we have had no official news regarding what will happen with the team for the 2024 VCT season.

Reports claim Zikz to join 100 Thieves as Head Coach

According to a report from Alejandro Gomis from Blix.gg, Zikz is reportedly very close to signing on as the new Head Coach of 100 Thieves heading into the upcoming VCT season.

Sources: Valorant World Champion Zikz 🇺🇸 has reached a verbal agreement with 100 Thieves 🇺🇸 to be the Head Coach of their VCT Americas team.

Zikz parted ways with Evil Geniuses on Sep. 8th

Read on @blix_gg ⬇️ https://t. co/GfjlTSW1I5

— Alejandro Gomis (@anonimotum) September 10, 2023

Last September 8, 2023, the North American organization announced that Zikz was leaving the VALORANT staff as a coach, but it was emphasized that it would not be a farewell to esports. Furthermore, the coach’s words were very clear, as he said he would be going on a “next journey” to win “another trophy.”

Super thankful to have worked with this amazing group at @EvilGeniuses. There are countless memories that I will never forget for as long as I live. Love all of you and wish the best for you guys, but now I am onto my next journey to win another one.

🏆🏆🏆🏆 pic.twitter.com/Cm80nBL1Yv

— Tony Gray (@Zikzlol) September 8, 2023

Following this announcement, many in the community began speculating that Zikz would sign with another VCT Americas team, and all indications are that this is indeed the case. According to Gomis’ report, the 30-year-old coach will join 100T for the 2024 VCT season.

About 100T

For all of us who follow the VCT in all its regions, we could notice that 100T’s performance went from better to worse this season.

The North American squad started the season on the right foot by qualifying for the quarterfinals of the VCT LOCK//IN São Paulo 2023 and lost to the champions, Fantic. However, this level of play remained there in Brazil, as, in the VCT Americas League, the team could not display its full potential, as they finished the regular season with a 4-5 record. Finally, 100T was defeated in the VCT LCQ Americas by Sentinels.

On the other hand, it should also be remembered that MIBR’s victory over 100T on the last day of the VCT regular season helped Evil Geniuses qualify for the VCT Masters Tokyo and, consequently, win the VALORANT Champions 2023. As a result, we can say that Zikz lifted the VCT Champions trophy thanks to 100T.

About Zikz

Right now, Zikz has a lot of work to do to confirm his signing with 100 Thieves. As Head Coach, his first task will be to evaluate and select the team’s lineup for the upcoming VCT season. He also has a lot to choose from, as 100T has a really deep pool of players and many talented players in free agency.

Likewise, Zikz knows exactly how to do it, as he was a key part of EG’s construction and performance in their run to lift the VALORANT Champions 2023 trophy.

Finally, it is worth mentioning that this would be Zikz’s first time taking the reins of a team as Head Coach. Previously, his highest position in a team had been as Assistant Coach. However, he has had the privilege of working with experienced players, so he is fully qualified for this new mission.

Header: Colin Young-Wolff | Riot Games