When the Moody Center lights up June 19 to 22, Austin will become the epicenter for one of the largest esports events ever hosted in the United States.

The sold out playoffs for Counter-Strike 2 roar into town as 32 of the world’s top Counter-Strike teams battle to win the $1.25 million BLAST.tv Major. Two Texas teams – Complexity Gaming and Wildcard – qualified to compete and will represent the Lone Star State. For Jason Lake, founder and CEO of Complexity Gaming, the event feels less like a road trip and more like a family reunion on home turf.

The Buy-Back That Brought the Band Back Together

Last year, Lake stunned the esports world by leading a group that repurchased Complexity from GameSquare Esports. “Complexity has always been like my third child,” he reflects. “When the opportunity arose to buy the brand back, it was something we couldn’t turn down.”
Returning to full independence hasn’t altered his core philosophy — innovate relentlessly, operate with integrity — but it has restored what he calls the “founder’s spark.” Decisions now move faster, partnerships feel more personal, and every victory (or stumble) lands squarely on his shoulders.

Building a Future-Proof Franchise

Complexity’s roadmap extends well beyond the trophy cabinet. Lake envisions the organization as a “digital sports property” built for a rapidly shifting media landscape. Diversifying revenue streams — whether through content studios, data products, or emerging tech like generative AI — is high on his agenda. “We’ve created a cross-generational brand that’s globally recognized,” he says. “Now it’s critical that we capitalize on new technologies and trends to stay at the forefront.”

The 2025 Roster: Veteran Backbone, Fresh Blood

On the server, Complexity fans are watching a delicate experiment. Veterans Johnny “JT” Theodosiou and Michael “Grim” Wince anchor a lineup infused with North American prospects Josh “cxzi” Glodoveza and Nic “nicx” Mason. Lake explains the logic: “Whenever possible, we seek to advance the careers of NA players and represent our region on the global stage.” Early results justify the gamble — upsets over top-five teams this spring hint at a ceiling that’s higher than pundits predicted.

Riding Momentum into Austin

Chemistry, Lake admits, is “a bit mysterious,” but the current blend of selflessness and sharp comms has produced their best spring split in years. The goal for Austin is clear: reach the playoffs stage in front of a roaring Texas crowd. “I’m hopeful the squad can make the stadium and give American fans something to remember.”

Two Decades, Countless Pivots

Lake has steered Complexity since 2003 — prehistoric times by esports standards. The biggest shift? Explosive global growth paired with budgeting headaches. “Running a viable business in an ecosystem with no salary caps and fluctuating revenues is challenging,” he notes. Sponsorship dollars ebb and flow with the macro-economy, forcing orgs to innovate — or fold.

Fuel That Never Runs Out

What keeps him grinding through the 20-hour travel days and roster dramas? The fans. “When a young father introduces his wide-eyed child to you and both are wearing your jersey… it impacts you.” Offstage, Lake unwinds lakeside, wake-surf board in hand during Texas summers, or beside a crackling fireplace in winter, book in tow — a surprisingly quiet counterpoint to the roar of arenas.

A “Full Circle” Major for North America

Calling the Austin Major a homecoming isn’t hype; early Counter-Strike LANs sprouted in Texas internet cafés. Lake believes this event can rekindle NA’s competitive fire: “It’s only appropriate that the most important event in Counter-Strike returns to our state.”

With independence regained, a revitalized roster, and a Major in his backyard, Jason Lake approaches Austin with equal parts nostalgia and ambition. If Complexity can channel its spring form under the Moody Center lights, Texas fans may witness more than just a full-circle moment — they might see the Lone Star org carve a new chapter into Counter-Strike history.

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Cover photo Michal Konkol

Reagan Love graduated from Baylor University in 2024 where he majored in Finance and Entrepreneurship/Corporate Innovation and currently works as a business analyst.  A former Counter Strike player with a lifelong passion for the game, Regan stays closely connected to the scene by following team development, tournament play, and the evolving meta. Reagan enjoys experiencing how today’s players and organizations are shaping the next era of competitive counter-strike.