FaZe Clan and Atlanta Esports Ventures unveiled a partnership Saturday in creating the Atlanta FaZe, one of 12 international franchises in the inaugural Call of Duty League launching in 2020.
The new team also announced its roster, led by Chris "Simp" Lehr, the reigning world championship MVP who led eUnited to the 2019 title.
Others on the roster will be Tyler "aBeZy" Pharris -- who was also on eUnited's championship team -- McArthur "Cellium" Jovel, Michael "MajorManiak" Szymaniak and Preston "Priestahh" Greiner. Cellium comes directly from FaZe Clan, while Preistahh has been with FaZe since 2017 aside from an eight-month stint with 100 Thieves. MajorManiak comes over from Gen.G.
The team's logo, designed by FaZe Clan founder Tommy "Temperrr" Oliveira, plays off the FaZe Clan logo with the familiar F, while incorporating an A for Atlanta.
"FaZe Clan has its roots in Call of Duty and participating in this inaugural league enables us to remain true to that rich heritage," FaZe Clan CEO Lee Trink said in a statement. "We are excited to partner with AEV and begin this new chapter for FaZe, in making Atlanta a new home."
"There is no better way to bring the best esports to the best city than through AEV's collaboration with FaZe Clan, "AEV president and CEO Paul Hamilton added in a statement.
AEV is a joint venture owned by Cox Enterprises, based in Atlanta, and Province, Inc., an advisory firm. AEV also houses the Atlanta Reign, the city's Overwatch League franchise.
-- Field Level Media