esports 4/2/2025 12:27:00 PM

Hawks Fall to Eastern Idaho, Face Must-Win Scenario for Nationals

Palatine, IL: The Hawks eSports Valorant team suffered a tough 0-2 loss to the College of Eastern Idaho in their latest playoff matchup, putting their national qualification hopes in jeopardy. The Hawks fell 3-13 in Game 1 but bounced back with an intense Game 2, ultimately coming up short in a nail-biting 10-13 finish.

With Nationals qualification hanging in the balance, this loss stings. "The journey is not over, and we haven't given up," said Coach Don Curley. "I made sure they understand that above all, they should be proud of their efforts and grateful for the experience."
The Hawks are still in contention for one of the final two qualifying spots, currently battling with Champlain, Arkansas, and Dallas for the last two slots. To secure their place at Nationals, the Hawks must win their next matchup and hope that two of the three competing teams lose.

Despite the disappointing result, Patrick Olechno (Sloth) and Emil Zhumagaliyev (Podpivas) left everything on the table, combining for 50 kills in Game 2 to push the match to the limit. Their effort kept the Hawks in contention, providing hope that they can bounce back in the next round.

With the season on the line, the Hawks now prepare for a must-win matchup, knowing that their fate depends not only on their performance but also on the results of their rivals. The pressure is at its peak—now, it's time to see if Harper can rise to the challenge.

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Players Mentioned

Patrick Olechno: Valorant; Freshman; itsslother

Emil Zhumagaliyev: Valorant, Marvel Rivals; Freshman; E-mail

Players Mentioned

Patrick Olechno
: Freshman; itsslother
: Valorant

Emil Zhumagaliyev
: Freshman; E-mail
: Valorant, Marvel Rivals