GameWave, the organizer of the NLC esports league, has apologized for how it handled the departure of former broadcast talent earlier this year. The apology comes after several former casters publicly expressed frustration over the league's hiring process for the upcoming Spring split.
Former casters react to open call
Former casters Jake 'Hiprain' Matthews and Georgia 'Troubleinc' Parasand were let go earlier in 2026. The NLC later posted an open call for casters without first contacting the previous talent. Over 90 people applied, and 20 candidates are still under consideration. The league acknowledged the situation was sensitive, stating that the open call was meant to be an efficient way to select both former and new talent.
Troubleinc responded by saying she had been with the NLC since 2019 and felt ignored. Hiprain said he turned down offers from the LPL three times to work with the NLC and was upset to see his job posted publicly before being spoken to. Another former caster, Adrian 'Jamada' Wharlton-Thorne, said it would have been proper etiquette to reach out to old staff first.
It remains unclear whether any of the former talent will return to cast. GameWave has not confirmed the status of previous broadcasters for the upcoming season.
Source: Insider Gaming
