TIMS thrilled to play with ex-teammates

Blacklist Rivalry team captain Timothy "TIMS" Randrup expects better performances from his old TNC Pro Team teammates as they brace for the upcoming DOTA Pro Circuit season.

Composed of four ex-TNC players TIMS, Carlo "Kuku" Palad, Marc "Raven" Fausto, Nico "eyyou" Barcelon, and former T1 mid laner Karl "Karl" Baldovino, Blacklist Rivalry is being touted as the Philippines' DOTA version of the Redeem Team.

With four of its players already familiar with each other's style and gameplay capabilities, TIMS is convinced that their old chemistry plus fresh wisdom they have acquired from various organizations would come in handy for the massive task ahead.

"The new dynamic now is we have a better knowledge of DOTA. We were so dumb before because we only played with our skills and not our brains. Since we went to different teams and picked up various knowledge, we have changed for the better," TIMS said.

"Personally, I do not know why they picked me as team captain but when it comes to drafting, we will all help each other out. The in-game shot calls, I make the last call."

The newly-formed all-Filipino DOTA 2 squad was assembled by Tier One Entertainment chief executive officer and Blacklist International co-owner Tryke Gutierrez in partnership with Rivalry.

Unlike other newly-assembled teams wanting to make their entry into the professional scene, Blacklist Rivalry skipped the qualification phase when it acquired RSG's franchise in the Southeast Asia League, automatically putting it in the Division I of DPC.

Now rich with experience, new ideas, and fueled by the hunger to regain the respect for the Philippines in the Southeast Asian region, Blacklist Rivalry plans to leave no stone unturned as it seeks to bring the country to The International contention in 2023.

"What happened in The International 11 was we merely followed the meta," Raven said.

"I think it would be better for us here at Blacklist Rivalry if we create the meta ourselves. That way they imitate us and we do not imitate them."