Ryoma on Australia vs. NA LoL: “It’s a lot better here than Australia”

Following their impressive victory over Team Liquid, 100 Thieves entered their match against Immortals with renewed confidence. However, the momentum from their previous success failed to carry over, resulting in a disappointing loss that maintains their .500 record at 3-3.

WIN.gg conducted an exclusive interview with Tommy “Ryoma” Lee, exploring the team’s performance gaps, strategic adjustments needed, and his personal transition to North American competition.

After defeating Team Liquid, did you anticipate stronger performance against Immortals?

Ryoma: We approached both matches with identical preparation mindsets – focusing on executing our game plan effectively rather than expecting specific outcomes. Our approach centers on playing fundamentally sound League of Legends.

Your aggressive strategy worked against Liquid but faltered versus Immortals. What factors contributed to this?

Immortals demonstrated superior preparation and strategic execution compared to Liquid. Their game plan was particularly intelligent, and they outperformed us in critical in-game situations.

What specific areas require improvement for 100 Thieves to reach top-tier status?

Our immediate focus involves addressing the deficiencies exposed in today’s match. We’ll concentrate heavily on early game execution during next week’s preparations, as our strong start against Liquid contrasted sharply with our performance today.

How does the competitive environment in LCS compare to Oceania’s regional scene?

The difference is substantial. LCS teams exhibit remarkable champion pool diversity, making draft prediction considerably more challenging. In Oceania, teams typically maintain smaller champion pools, allowing for more predictable ban/pick phases. The North American competitive landscape demands greater adaptability in strategic planning.

How does your team adapt preparation methods for this increased variability?

While preparation fundamentals remain similar, we must account for opponents frequently selecting comfort champions or meta-optimal picks. However, the flexibility of LCS teams means strategies can shift unexpectedly between matches.

How long have you been competing in North America?

I’ve been here approximately two months now, adjusting to both the competitive intensity and cultural differences.

How does your experience in Los Angeles compare to Australia regarding esports infrastructure?

The League of Legends ecosystem here significantly surpasses what’s available in Australia. While I appreciate my home country, the professional treatment and resources available in North American esports create a superior competitive environment.

Los Angeles provides excellent training facilities and competitive infrastructure. The climate differs considerably from Australia, though neither location currently offers ideal weather conditions.

What are your impressions of American cuisine and dining culture?

The portion sizes here are substantially larger than what I’m accustomed to. Australian burgers and pizzas typically feature more modest dimensions, and I often find myself unable to finish meals.

Having heard kangaroos are considered pests in Australia, have you encountered any problematic situations with them?

In Sydney’s urban and suburban areas, kangaroo sightings are uncommon. However, during a visit to Brisbane, I observed them crossing roads – my initial encounter witnessing their distinctive hopping locomotion in natural settings.

Do you believe you could physically confront a kangaroo?

Absolutely not. Kangaroos possess significant physical strength that makes direct confrontation inadvisable.

What about within League of Legends gameplay?

Even in-game, the outcome would likely remain unfavorable.

Which teammate demonstrates the most communication during matches?

Meteos consistently provides clear, effective communication regarding his intentions and strategic calls.

How about outside competitive environments?

Meteos maintains his communicative role as team captain and primary leader. However, social leadership dynamics differ when we’re not engaged in gameplay.

Who exhibits the most toxic behavior on the team?

Our team environment remains exceptionally positive. All members maintain friendly attitudes, creating a relaxed, productive atmosphere conducive to improvement.

Which player consumes the most food? I assume it’s not you.

Correct, I’m not the heaviest eater. Based on my observations, Stunt typically consumes the largest quantities.

Who possesses the most questionable culinary preferences?

Our team demonstrates minimal pickiness regarding food choices. Most members prefer standard cuisine options, though Ssumday occasionally opts for traditional Korean meals.

What are your personal favorite foods?

I particularly enjoy steak and pho.

Which team member displays the strongest singing ability?

Our coach Joe demonstrates notable vocal talent. He’s the only individual I recall performing songs with any frequency.

Do you possess singing talent yourself?

I don’t have any significant singing capability.

Who requires the most preparation time before team activities?

I typically require the longest preparation period. Punctuality represents an area requiring personal improvement, as I frequently struggle with time management when departing from our team apartment.

Which player watches the most anime content?

Stunt appears to be our most dedicated anime viewer. While I occasionally watch series, my consumption has decreased recently. Haikyu!! represents the primary series I’ve viewed, including during my flight to Los Angeles.

How will the team commemorate Valentine’s Day?

I’m uncertain about specific plans. Relationship statuses vary among teammates, though I’m aware Cody Sun maintains a relationship.

If permitted to have an office pet, what would you select?

I would prefer canine companionship.

What specific breed appeals to you?

A Pomeranian would be ideal. I previously owned one in Australia that exhibited excellent behavior – consistently calm with minimal barking, though displaying excitement upon our return home.

What are your expectations for next weekend’s match against Dignitas?

Dignitas demonstrates competent performance based on current observations. Their gameplay contains identifiable vulnerabilities that we can exploit. Our success will depend on improvement rate and effectively addressing current performance gaps.

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