FaZe Clan Welcomes Frozen as Twistzz Bids Farewell
In a strategic move that has caught the attention of esports enthusiasts worldwide, FaZe Clan has announced the addition of David "frozen" Čerňanský to their Counter-Strike: Global Offensive (CS:GO) roster. This change comes on the heels of Russel "Twistzz" Van Dulken's departure from the team. While other teams have opted for sweeping changes amidst the transition from CS:GO to its sequel, CS2, FaZe Clan has taken a more conservative approach, adjusting their lineup with just one new member.
FaZe Clan's Measured Roster Change
Formerly a key player for MOUZ, known previously as mousesports, frozen has been making waves in the competitive scene since 2019. His illustrious career includes a notable victory at Flashpoint Season three in 2021, where he not only took the championship but was also honored with the MVP award. The 21-year-old Slovakian has an impressive list of achievements under his belt, including a second-place finish at the CS Asia Championship and a triumph at ESL Pro League Season 18. His consistent performance has earned him a spot as the 17th-best player of 2022 according to HLTV rankings.
The incorporation of frozen into FaZe Clan's ranks marks a significant shift for the team, which now boasts an entirely European lineup. The current ensemble features talents like Håvard "rain" Nygaard, Helvijs "broky" Saukants, Finn "karrigan" Andersen, and Robin "ropz" Kool, with Filip "NEO" Kubski providing guidance as the coach.
A Fond Farewell to Twistzz
The conclusion of the 2023 season saw FaZe Clan achieving remarkable success, with victories at four S-tier tournaments and securing a top-eight placement at the Paris Major. Their impressive run was highlighted by three consecutive wins at IEM Sydney, the Thunderpick World Championships, and the CS Asia Championships. However, despite these accomplishments, they fell short in the Blast Premier Fall Final, conceding the Grand Final to Team Vitality.
The Canadian prodigy, Twistzz, who played an integral role in FaZe's recent successes, has officially parted ways with the team as of December 1. This has sparked conversations about a potential return to Team Liquid. As the 2022 Esports Play of the Year recipient, Twistzz has made it clear that his departure had been in the works for some time, even before the team's last dance at IEM Sydney—a series that culminated in unexpected triumphs.
"Before IEM Sydney started, the team knew I was leaving. I knew it would be a last dance, but I could never have predicted the success that followed," Twistzz reflected on his final moments with FaZe Clan.
Despite the shock his decision may cause among fans, Twistzz promised to unveil more about his future endeavors when the time is right. He conveyed his readiness to embrace new challenges while cherishing the bittersweet conclusion to his tenure with FaZe Clan.
Twistzz's legacy in Counter-Strike is nothing short of extraordinary. He is celebrated as one of North America's premier players, having achieved the rare feat of winning both an Intel Grand Slam and a PGL Major with two different teams. His skill and dedication to the game have set him apart as a distinguished figure in the esports arena.
In a heartfelt message to his former teammates, Twistzz expressed profound gratitude for the camaraderie and support he received during his time with FaZe Clan. He credited them for contributing significantly to his personal growth, stating, "You helped me grow into a better person, never judged me once and I always felt comfortable every step of the way. You all contributed to who I am today."
As the CS:GO community anticipates what the future holds for both Twistzz and FaZe Clan, the stage is set for an exciting new chapter in competitive play. With frozen stepping into the fray and Twistzz setting his sights on new horizons, fans around the globe will be watching eagerly to see how these changes unfold in the ever-evolving landscape of esports.