The Golden State Warriors esports arm has named Hunter Leigh as its head of esports.
It comes after the NBA Championship team were confirmed as an partner in Riot Games’ new North American League of Legends Championship Series franchise system.
In the role, Leigh will oversee esports activity related to the Warriors itself, who are set to compete in the NBA 2K League as well as the newly named “Golden State Guardians”, the brand that will enter the NA LCS for the new season.
Hunter Leigh is a man with an array of experience in esports. Prior to this role, he was head of esports operations for Yahoo Esports which shut back in June following Verizon’s acquisition of the Yahoo brand. He has also set up several esports events in the growing University and College space in the United States, including in League of Legends and FGC titles.
Leigh commented in a release: “The Warriors are such a well-respected sports franchise and organization, and I am fortunate that they selected me to help steward their entrance into esports. I’m eager to hit the ground running as it relates to player acquisitions and building competitive teams for both League of Legends and the NBA 2K League. The Warriors have a proven model for championship success, and I am looking to bring their player development and analytical approach to the esports space.”
Esports Insider says: The Warriors have in Leigh a man with a great understanding of the esports scene. With regards to folk that can oversee a successful entrance into esports and truly understand the demographic, there’s likely few candidates better suited to the role. We look forward to seeing who the Golden Guardians sign as they look to be competitive in what should be an intriguing first season of the new LCS.
