PHOTOS: AP BREN’s Season 15—Not Every Underdog Finds a Fairy Tale

May 2, 2025 Mario Alvaro Limos

There were no fireworks when AP BREN unveiled their Season 15 roster. No legacy names. No superstar return. Just five young men, once dismissed as MDL dreamers, now wearing one of the heaviest jerseys in the league.

These were LAZY Esports alumni—unknown to many, but unshaken. In their silence, there was steel. In their hunger, a quiet rebellion. But not all underdogs end up as Cinderella stories. Here is a brief recap of AP BREN’s Season 15 journey, in photos taken by Richard Dizon Esguerra.

Week 1: A Harsh Awakening

Their MPL debut was a baptism by fire and a reminder of MPL Philippines’ unforgiving nature. Facing TNC Pro Team, AP BREN suffered a 0–2 defeat. TNC, breaking a 15-match losing streak, dominated the series, leaving AP BREN to grapple with the league’s unforgiving pace.

AP BREN's debut match in MPL PH Season 15 was against TNC Pro Team. — AP BREN’s debut match in MPL PH Season 15 was against TNC Pro Team.

AP BREN's JamesPangks, dubbed "The Man With A Million Moves," smiles excitedly as he prepares for his debut match in MPL Philippines. — AP BREN’s JamesPangks, dubbed “The Man With A Million Moves,” smiles excitedly as he prepares for his debut match in MPL Philippines.

Week 2: Lessons in Resilience

The challenges continued as AP BREN faced Aurora Gaming and Team Liquid PH, both resulting in 1–2 and 0–2 losses, respectively. Despite the setbacks, glimpses of potential emerged, hinting at a team learning and adapting with each match.

AP BREN's Chovskrt during their match against Aurora. — AP BREN’s Chovskrt during their match against Aurora during Week 2 of MPL Philippines Season 15.

Shizou enters the stage. He faces Domengkite, his gold lane counterpart in Aurora.

AP BREN's side of the hall has much fewer fans than Aurora's, but their fans are just as loyal. — AP BREN’s side of the hall had much fewer fans than Aurora’s, but their fans are just as loyal.

Week 3: Struggles Persist

Week 3 saw AP BREN battling Twisted Minds PH and ONIC Philippines. The former match ended in a close 1–2 loss, while the latter was a 0–2 defeat. The team remained winless, but their determination was evident.

Week 4: Breaking Through

The breakthrough came halfway through the regular season against Smart Omega. AP BREN secured their first victory with a commanding 2–0 sweep. Jan “Shizou” Valdez’s standout performance, including a triple kill in Game 2, showcased the team’s growing synergy and confidence.

"Na-interview rin sa stage!" JamesPangks said candidly after they won their first series in the season. — “Na-interview rin sa stage!” JamesPangks said candidly after they won their first series in the season. Only the winners of the series are interviewed by MPL’s hosts.

Tension was etched on their faces before the match against Smart Omega started.

And then a rare moment of disbelief and relief.

Week 5: Continued Challenges

Facing TNC Pro Team, AP BREN fought hard but ultimately fell 0–2. The loss highlighted areas for improvement, yet the team’s resolve remained unshaken.

Shizou faced off against BennyQt, who debuted for TNC Pro Team on Week 5 of MPL Philippines Season 15.

Der remained calm and collected as he steered his team against TNC.

Chovskrt was determined to prove himself, being one of the five rookies of the season

Shizou looks up as his coach gives instructions

Coach Jeff was all smiles as AP BREN rode on a Week 4 victory that could gain momentum.

Unfortunately for AP BREN, “Bagyong Benny” was a potent force during their Week 5 rematch. Things looked grim for AP BREN.

Week 6: A Glimmer of Hope

AP BREN faced Aurora. Despite a valiant effort, they suffered another 0-2 loss. Aurora, coming off from their first defeat in the hands of ONIC PH, delivered a commanding 2–0 sweep over AP BREN. Although AP BREN had moments of promise, they struggled to counter Aurora’s cohesive gameplay and strategic depth.

Pre-game, the players looked serious:

Week 7: The Final Blow

Week 7 sealed their fate. On April 26, AP BREN lost 0–2 to Twisted Minds PH. The next day, April 27, they faced ONIC Philippines and were defeated 0–2, confirming their elimination from playoff contention.