DarkZero Esports is set to enter VALORANT esports by signing North American-based team ‘Kooky Koalas,’ originally reported by Arran “Halo” Spake on April 15 and confirmed by sources close to Upcomer.
The team, which has been without an organization since its inception earlier this year, have competed in several VALORANT Championship Tour events in North America. They have defeated top teams in the region such as Built by Gamers and Spacestation Gaming in previous tournaments.
DarkZero had shopped around for several different rosters once their intention to join the esport was known earlier this month, according to sources. However, it is not clear when the organization is set to announce the acquisition. DarkZero declined to comment.
Kooky Koalas is considered to be a solid roster in North American VALORANT. The team finished in the top 32 for the VCT Stage 2: Challengers 1. Kooky Koalas lost to fellow North American side Ghost Gaming 2-1 on April 2 to end their most recent bout in the Riot Games-backed tournament.
The team made a name for themselves in the third Challengers tournament for VCT Stage 1. Kooky Koalas defeated both Built By Gamers and beastcoast, two teams considered to be strong contenders. But they were sent to the lower bracket by Luminosity Gaming in the upper bracket quarterfinals. Kooky Koalas were handed a knockout blow by Gen.G 2-0 on March 5.
DarkZero, however, has not had experience in VALORANT. The organization is primarily known for its coveted Rainbow Six: Siege roster, which finished in first place at the Six August Major in North America last year.
Upon completion of the move DarkZero would field the following VALORANT roster:
- Kyle “ScrewFace” Jensen
- Andy “Andersin” Collins
- Nick “Harmon” Harmon
- Adam “Ange” Milian
- Erik “d1msumboi” Almhjell
- Zack “huuaw” Solomon (coach)
