In an exhilarating display of skill and strategy, Lubbock Christian University’s (LCU) Esports team has clinched the national title in the game Super Smash Bros Ultimate (SSBU). This prestigious event took place in Orlando, FL on April 27, against the nation’s top collegiate teams in the National Association of Collegiate Esports (NACE) Starleague Spring 2024 SSBU National Championship.
NACE is the largest collegiate esports league in the United States, encompassing over 240 member schools and more than 5,000 student athletes. Competing in the highest division of varsity esports, LCU’s victory came against the formidable Stony Brook University, the back-to-back defending champions and favorites to win.
The LCU team, comprised of students from diverse academic backgrounds, showcased outstanding teamwork and individual prowess. Notably, freshman Tiki Duquella delivered a standout performance by single-handedly defeating three players from Stony Brook, including one ranked 56th worldwide.
The championship-winning team includes:
- Tiki Duquella, Freshman, Humanities Major from Knoxville, TN
- Oscar Marquez, Junior, Information Systems and Technology Major from Houston, TX
- Philippe Guite, Freshman, Business Management Major from Austin, TX
- Edgarth Benavides, Freshman, Exercise Sports Science Major from Odessa, TX
- Trey White, Junior, Digital Media Applications Major from Burnet, TX
Under the guidance of Coach Brandon Hackett, now in his second year, LCU Esports has risen swiftly in the competitive ranks. “This championship represents not just a win, but a testament to the dedication, talent, and spirit of our athletes,” said Coach Hackett. “We’re proud to bring this title home and showcase the capabilities and mission of LCU on a national stage.”
This triumph follows a string of successes for LCU Esports, including a recent second place finish in the 2024 Colleague Madness Tournament for Rocket League, where LCU rose through the ranks of the top 64 teams in North America to make the Grand Finals, falling only to Northwood University, and tournament MVP accolades going to LCU’s Noah West, freshman General Business major from Richmond, VA. The momentum from these victories positions LCU as a burgeoning powerhouse in collegiate esports, drawing attention and talent from across the nation.
As LCU continues to foster a competitive and supportive environment for its student athletes, the future of LCU Esports looks brighter than ever.