VCT LOCK IN Predictor: Alpha bracket

The official kickoff event for the 2023 partnered VALORANT circuit has served some delicious duels so far in the Alpha Bracket. There have been some upsets but the usual suspects like LOUD, NRG Esports, and DRX have made it to the next round safely. However, the single elimination format will mean we are already heading towards the business end of the Alpha Bracket at VCT 2023 LOCK//IN. Eight teams remain in the Alpha Bracket but only two teams will qualify for the final phase.

Let us look at the teams primed to qualify from the VCT LOCK//IN Alpha Bracket as well as ones that can surprise the favorites.

Expected to Qualify

NRG Esports

The first impressions of the new-look NRG Esports were somewhat mixed. The team features the core of the OpTic Gaming roster that were quite dominant in the official VALORANT scene. But, their Icebox performance was an instant indicator that things might not be the same with Ardis "ardiis" Svarenieks, as it used to be when they had Jaccob "yay" Whiteaker. KOI showed glaring chinks in NRG's armor, withardiis nowhere as comfortable on Sage on the map. The fact that they still managed to pull through on Icebox and the series is a testament to the lineup's potential.

Up against GIANTX next, NRG's main challengers would end up being LOUD if they manage to overcome Giants. While LOUD do look good, NRG are expected to pull through purely based on the fact that they looked more convincing in their opening matchup.

Cloud9

Quite easily the team of the tournament so far, Cloud9 have staked their claim for the VALORANT throne at VCT LOCK//IN with an indomitable performance against the wild and wily Paper Rex. Not only did they knock them out in straight maps, but Cloud9 also put on a display on the second map for their fans. They have delivered a fearsome warning shot to their rivals, showing just how powerful their lineup can be. And, that is without needing yay to go bonkers.

They are set to face DRX next. But, knowing Matthew "mCe" Elmore, Cloud9 will come into the match well prepared. DRX would have been favorites. But, the two teams have had a vastly different Round 1, with DRX surprisingly giving up a map to BBL Esports. The firepower in Cloud9's lineup is able to now match up to the best of VALORANT rosters and a victory against DRX would go a long way towards proving the same.

Dark Horse

Evil Geniuses

Americas as a region have come out on top early on in the Alpha Bracket at VCT LOCK//IN. But, one team that managed to catch everyone's eyes was Evil Geniuses. The North American organization has been at the receiving end of a lot of trolls with their 10-man philosophy and lackluster announcement methods.

But, their match against Team Heretics is proof that Christine "potter" Chi's army can be devilishly good. Their route to qualification though, is still filled with tropes. First, they will face another impressive looking roster in the form of Talon Esports, someone that has been able to build upon their own distinct identity. If they overcome that hurdle, they will either go up against the DRX, a team with immense firepower and great tactical nous or Cloud9, which could be the start of another historic rivalry between the two storied organizations as they brace themselves for the international leagues.

The recipe for success seems to be there. And, all signs point towards the rise of Evil Geniuses.