NRG Shock Not Selected for OWCS 2025
Earlier today, Andy Miller, founder and CEO of NRG, took to X to express his disappointment over NRG Shock not being selected as a partnered team for the 2025 Overwatch Championship Series.
In his heartfelt statement, Miller highlighted the team’s storied history, immense popularity, and contributions to the Overwatch ecosystem. While also lamenting the apparent end of an era for NRG in competitive Overwatch.
Despite the team's consistent support for the OWCS and its significant presence in the community, Miller noted the shock and frustration of not being selected. Marking this as “the end of the road” for the NRG Shock.
The Legacy of NRG Shock
The San Francisco Shock emerged as one of the most successful teams in Overwatch’s history. Under NRG’s ownership, the team clinched two Grand Final Championships during the six seasons of the Overwatch League. Thus becoming the first team to win two back-to-back championships. Following the OWL’s dissolution, NRG re-entered the Overwatch competitive scene in 2024 by acquiring the Students of the Game roster. The team debuted as “NRG Shock” during the OWCS Dallas Major.
San Francisco Shock wins back-to-back OWL Championships (Image Source: Robert Paul/Blizzard Entertainment)The Shock quickly made waves despite early challenges. Their dramatic roster announcements and community-focused initiatives earned widespread attention, rekindling fan enthusiasm for the storied brand.
Throughout OWCS 2024, the team’s performances ranged from heartbreaking defeats to spectacular victories. Such as their upset against the Toronto Defiant in OWCS Stage 3. The team concluded the season with a Top 4 finish at the OWCS World Finals, defying expectations after a mediocre 2024 season.
Beyond their achievements on the battlefield, the NRG Shock were instrumental in fostering a vibrant Overwatch community. Their commitment to the Tier 2 and collegiate scenes, merchandise innovation, and fan engagement solidified their reputation as one of the most beloved North American teams.
The decision to exclude the Shock from OWCS 2025 has left fans and stakeholders questioning the criteria for selection and the future of competitive Overwatch in North America. And with all the players leaving due to expired contracts last month, the path forward for NRG in Overwatch remains uncertain.
NRG Shock players' contracts end (Image Source: @owcesports on Threads)Despite this setback, the legacy of the Shock’s contributions to the game, its community, and its competitive ecosystem will endure as a testament to NRG’s dedication and vision.
Stay tuned to Strafe Esports for more updates on the upcoming Season 14 of Overwatch 2. You can also follow us on our X account for the latest content and coverage.
Featured Image Source: Overwatch Esports
Read More:
Overwatch 2 x Avatar: The Last Airbender Collaboration