The Los Angeles Valiant have announced the release of players Sebastian “Numlocked” Barton, Stefano “Verbo” DiSalvo, Finnbjorn “Finnsi” Jonasson, and assistant coach Christopher “Grimreality” Schaefer.
The Los Angeles Valiant have released @Verbo , @numlocked , @FinnsiOW , and @Grimreality from their contracts.
We thank them for their contributions to the team and wish them continued success in their careers. https://t.co/NoJ3PUt4kt pic.twitter.com/lb60hgeRJq
— Los Angeles Valiant (@LAValiant) September 7, 2018
“We thank Numlocked, Verbo, Finnsi, and Grimreality for their contributions to the LA Valiant during Overwatch League’s inaugural season and wish them well in future endeavors.”, said LA Valiant CEO Noah Whinston.
Numlocked has no plans of quitting the professional Overwatch scene and took to Twitter to release a statement through a TwitLonger post, which you can read in full here.
hey what's up
Read: https://t.co/UcMny8QY6j
— Seb Barton (@numlocked) September 7, 2018
Verbo’s message was heartfelt and he expressed gratitude towards the fans and Valiant organization. It’s unclear what his plans for the future are at this time.
With 2 years representing @Immortals @Valiant i’ve learned & grown beyond expectations. I’m so thankful for the opportunities given which came with incredible memories to cherish. Looking forward to where I find myself next. Thank you, much love♥️ #VALLA pic.twitter.com/0Z55FIHYYi
— Stefano Disalvo (@Verbo) September 8, 2018
Grimreality has yet to provide any response to his release and Finnsi has retweet the Valiant’s tweet announcing his release.
The Valiant finished the season with the second best overall record with 27 wins and 13 losses. They finished within the top four during every stage except for stage two and were the pacific division leaders heading into the playoffs. Unfortunately they were swept by the London Spitfire, who then went on to win the inaugural grand finals.
September 8 was the deadline for extending player contracts and Sep. 9 is when the window for expansion teams to have the option to sign free agents begins. All Overwatch League teams will have the ability to sign free agents as of Oct. 8 and by Dec. 8 all teams are required to have a minimum of eight players on their roster.
