Will TNC Finally Rise From a Bottom-8 Finish?
Few teams in the MPL Philippines have seen as many struggles in recent seasons as TNC. Once a promising squad, the organization has been trapped at the bottom of the standings for five seasons, failing to make a significant impact against the league’s heavyweights. Now, with a revitalized roster featuring superstars and more, TNC is gearing up for a shot at redemption.
But will this be the season they finally rise from their slump?
ALSO READ:
- Yawi’s Redemption: From the Bench and Back Again
- Who is Lamaj, Hadji’s Cousin and Twisted Minds’ Rookie Gold Laner?
The New (and Familiar) Faces of TNC
TNC’s off-season moves sent shockwaves through the scene, bringing in battle-tested veterans who have spent time in some of the best organizations in the region. Leading the charge is Yawi, the dynamic roamer whose year-long absence from competitive play saw him benched by both Team Liquid Indonesia and ECHO. Known for his aggressive, playmaking-heavy style, Yawi is eager to prove that he still belongs among the elite roamers of MPL.
Another notable returnee is 3marTzy, the former bad boy of ECHO. Once notorious for his flashy plays and fiery attitude, 3marTzy is looking to channel his passion into results on the battlefield. If he can strike the right balance between confidence and discipline, he could be the X-factor that TNC desperately needs.
Meanwhile, Zaida, a jungler who spent time with Team Liquid as a substitute for KarlTzy in Seasons 13 and 14, is stepping into a lead role for TNC. Often overshadowed by bigger names, Zaida has shown glimpses of brilliance whenever he’s been given the opportunity. With full reins on the jungle position, he now has a chance to make his mark as a top-tier talent.
Adding to the intrigue is the rumored addition of BennyQt to the roster. The former world champion and one of the most consistent gold laners in the league, BennyQt’s presence could be a game-changer for TNC if the signing materializes. While nothing has been confirmed yet, his conversation with MLBB esports impresario Dogie during a livestream has already sparked excitement among fans and analysts alike.
It’s also a bonus factor that most of the players in this team have worked together in the past. Yawi, 3marTzy, and Zaida have spent time together in ECHO, while Lord JM, Lancey, and Kouzen were forged under Minana EVOS. “Walang problema sa amin yung chemistry,” Yawi told ALL-STAR. “Magkakasama naman kami dati pa.”
Can TNC Turn Things Around in Season 15?
TNC’s past struggles haven’t been about individual talent but rather cohesion and execution. Yawi knows this.
“Malalakas naman ‘yung mga dumaan sa TNC,” he analyzes. “Pero parang may kulang. Siguro kailangan lang timplahin nang maayos.”
While the addition of seasoned veterans brings experience, the challenge will be in building synergy and establishing a strong identity as a team. Yawi’s strong personality should be harnessed for TNC’s cohesion, combined with 3marTzy’s raw mechanical skill and Zaida’s potential. Then we will see an exciting yet unpredictable mix.
Another major factor will be how TNC adapts to the evolving meta. The team has historically struggled to find its footing when new patches or strategies shake up the competitive landscape. If they can develop a well-defined playstyle that maximizes their strengths, they could shake up the MPL standings.
With powerhouse teams such as ONIC PH and AP BREN still dominating the MPL Philippines landscape, TNC’s road to redemption will not be easy. But with their revamped lineup and renewed hunger for victory, this season could be their best shot at breaking free from the bottom ranks.