(Updated: January 2025)
LNG Esports, formerly known as Snake Esports, is a professional esports organization based in China, competing in the League of Legends Pro League (LPL). Established in 2013, the team underwent a pivotal transformation in 2019 when it was acquired and rebranded by the Chinese sportswear company Li-Ning. Since its inception, LNG Esports has made a name for itself on the competitive League of Legends scene, participating in international tournaments like the World Championship and securing its place among the top esports organizations in the region.
History of LNG Esports – From Snake Esports to the LPL Stage
2013-2018: Snake Esports Era
LNG Esports began its journey in 2013 under its original name, Snake Esports. During its early years, the organization built a reputation within China’s rapidly growing esports ecosystem. Snake Esports became a consistent participant in the LPL, China’s top-tier League of Legends tournament.
While the team never claimed an LPL championship during this time, it consistently delivered competitive performances and developed a strong fanbase. By showcasing upcoming talents and maintaining a solid roster, Snake Esports carved out a position for itself as a mid-tier contender in the regional circuit.
2019: Rebranding to LNG Esports
In 2019, Snake Esports entered a new chapter when it was acquired by Li-Ning, a leading Chinese sportswear brand. The acquisition brought significant financial support and rebranding, transforming Snake Esports into LNG Esports. As part of the transition, the organization updated its branding identity, aiming to become one of the most competitive teams in the global League of Legends scene.
The inaugural roster under the LNG Esports name was built upon the foundation of Snake Esports’ players. Key inclusions were Li “Flandre” Xuanjun as top laner and Lê “SofM” Quang Duy, known for his innovative gameplay, as jungler. The organization also made strategic signings, bringing in mid laner Bae “Plex” Ho-young, bot laner Lu “Asura” Qi, and support Hu “Maestro” Jianxin, among others.
In their debut season as LNG Esports during the 2019 LPL Summer Split, the team showcased promise. They secured a seventh-place finish in the regular season and delivered an impressive performance in the playoffs, defeating Invictus Gaming in the first round before falling to Royal Never Give Up in the quarterfinals.
2020: Roster Reshuffles and Challenges
The 2020 season was a challenging period for the team, marked by significant roster changes. LNG Esports parted ways with notable players such as SofM and Plex, as the team sought to find the perfect balance of talent and synergy. They introduced new additions like rookie support Liao “Iwandy” Dingyang, mid laner Huang “Maple” Yi-tang, and jungler Xiong “Xx” Yulong. Furthermore, promising bot laner Wang “Light” Guangyu was promoted from their academy lineup.
Despite their efforts, the results did not meet expectations. The team finished 16th in the spring split and 13th in the summer split, showcasing a lack of cohesion despite individual talent. These struggles set the stage for increased focus and strategic recalibration in the following seasons.
2021: A Step Towards Redemption
LNG Esports made significant strides in the 2021 season. With a revamped roster, including top laner Chang “M1kuya” Xiao, mid laner Xie “icon” Tianyu, and jungler Lee “Tarzan” Seung-yong, the team rebounded from their prior struggles. Their spring split performance was modest, finishing 10th and narrowly sneaking into the playoffs. However, they experienced a resurgence during the summer split, securing an eighth-place finish and advancing to the playoffs. Though their run ended in the quarterfinals against Edward Gaming, LNG Esports earned a spot in the 2021 LPL Regional Finals. Here, they defeated Rare Atom and Team WE to qualify for the 2021 World Championship.
2022-2023: Rebuilding and Growth
Following their Worlds appearance in 2021, LNG Esports faced another round of rebuilding. They brought in star mid laner Kim “Doinb” Tae-sang and support Zuo “LvMao” Minghao, alongside retaining key talent Tarzan. Despite the initial hype, the team’s performance in 2022 showcased inconsistency, ultimately missing out on Worlds qualification.
In preparation for 2023, LNG Esports completely restructured its roster, with Tarzan being the only player retained. Additions for the 2023 campaign included Tang “Zika” Huaya, Zhang “Yuekai” Yuekai, Fu “Hang” Minghang, and former World Champion Lee “Scout” Ye-chan. Demonstrating significant improvements, the team secured third-place finishes in the spring and summer splits of the LPL and once again earned their spot at the World Championship through the LPL Regional Finals.
2024: Recent Success and Challenges
LNG Esports continued to build upon their 2023 trajectory in 2024. After qualifying as the LPL’s third seed for the World Championship, they had a solid start but ultimately faced elimination in the quarterfinals, losing 3-1 to Weibo Gaming (WBG). While the result was disappointing, their ability to stay competitive against top-tier teams highlighted their growth.
Notable Achievements – Defining Moments on the International Stage
- 2021 World Championship: Qualified through LPL Regional Finals but fell short in the group stage.
- 2023 World Championship: Secured a spot after defeating Edward Gaming in the Regional Finals. They competed strongly but were eliminated in the later rounds of the tournament.
- 2024 World Championship: Advanced to the quarterfinals, showcasing their potential against the world’s best teams before being eliminated by Weibo Gaming.
Current and Previous Rosters of LNG Esports
Current Players
- Luo “Crescent” Cheng
- Zeng “U” Long
- Tang “Zika” Huaya
- Lee “Scout” Ye-chan
- Fu “Hang” Minghang
- Weiwei & GALA (part of recent team lineups)
Past Notable Players
- Lê “SofM” Quang Duy
- Kim “Doinb” Tae-sang
- Huang “Fenfen” Chen
- Huang “Maple” Yi-tang
- Lee “Tarzan” Seung-yong
Frequently Asked Questions – LNG Esports
What is LNG Esports?
LNG Esports is a Chinese professional League of Legends team competing in the LPL (League of Legends Pro League). They were formerly known as Snake Esports before rebranding in 2019.
When was LNG Esports founded?
The organization was originally founded in 2013 under the name Snake Esports.
Who owns LNG Esports?
LNG Esports is owned by the Chinese sportswear company Li-Ning, which acquired and rebranded the organization in 2019.
What is LNG Esports’ best performance in the League of Legends World Championship?
Their most notable World Championship performances include reaching the group stage in 2021 and advancing to the quarterfinals in 2024.
Who are some legendary players from LNG Esports?
Prominent players include Lê “SofM” Quang Duy, Kim “Doinb” Tae-sang, Lee “Tarzan” Seung-yong, and Huang “Maple” Yi-tang.
What happened to Snake Esports?
Snake Esports was rebranded as LNG Esports in 2019 following its acquisition by Li-Ning.
What does LNG stand for?
LNG in LNG Esports stands for Li-Ning Gaming, reflecting the name of its parent company.
What are LNG Esports’ recent achievements?
In 2023, they secured third place in the LPL Summer Split and qualified for the World Championship. In 2024, they reached the World Championship quarterfinals.
Where can I find more information about LNG Esports?
You can visit the officially LNG Esports page to learn more about their latest updates and roster information.
What is the LPL, and why is it significant for LNG Esports?
The LPL (League of Legends Pro League) is China’s premier League of Legends competition. LNG Esports competes in this league, making it a critical part of their competitive journey.
