North American esports organization DarkZero Esports, based in Las Vegas, have officially acquired all esports assets of NRG for an undisclosed fee. The deal was announced by both parties on December 19, with a clear emphasis that the transition will not impact any of the organization’s active teams, including its Counter-Strike roster.
A new leadership structure at NRG
An update from our founder, @amiller pic.twitter.com/phxK0NBn5j
— NRG (@NRGgg) December 19, 2025
As part of the acquisition, DarkZero CEO Don Kim will assume the role of Chief Executive Officer of NRG, replacing Andy Miller, who will remain within the organization in an advisory role. According to The Esports Advocate, DarkZero will continue to fully operate all NRG teams while preserving the brand, internal structure, and key staff members.
Speaking to The Esports Insider, Don Kim confirmed that all DarkZero teams will now compete under the NRG banner, effectively positioning the organization under new strategic leadership without triggering a rebrand or structural reset.
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The move reflects a broader industry trend, as even well-established organizations increasingly seek ownership changes to adapt to the evolving economic realities of modern esports.
“Passing of the torch”: the end of the Miller era
In a farewell video, Andy Miller, the founder and long-time figurehead of NRG, described the sale as a “passing of the torch”, signaling a controlled and intentional transition rather than an abrupt exit.
They are terrific. So far, it’s been a great working relationship. DarkZero have been in the space for a long time, they think long-term, and they have a clear vision for where esports is heading,” Miller said. They are keeping the NRG brand, keeping all the players, all the staff, and myself included. Jaime will of course continue to run the gaming side. We are incredibly fortunate to hand things over to a group with deep pockets, imagination, and a long-term view of the space.
The message reinforces the nature of the deal: this is not a fire sale or dismantling, but a deliberate handover aimed at long-term stability.
What this means for Counter-Strike
The announcement is particularly relevant for fans of NRG’s Counter-Strike division. The team, currently ranked 32nd in the global Valve Regional Standings, will not undergo any roster or structural changes as a result of the acquisition.
NRG ended their 2025 season with a 2–3 run in Stage 1 of the StarLadder Budapest Major 2025, competing under challenging circumstances as head coach Damian “daps” Steele stood in as a player in place of Nick “nitr0” Cannella. Despite the disruption, the roster remained competitive and retained its position within the global top 40.
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According to available information, DarkZero do not intend to interfere with sporting decisions within the CS division, at least in the short term. Instead, the focus appears to be on organizational continuity and strategic planning heading into 2026.
Early plans for the 2026 season
NRG’s Counter-Strike team will kick off their 2026 campaign with a trip to Las Vegas for the fl0m Mythical LAN, scheduled to take place January 9–11, 2026. The event will serve as the team’s first competitive outing following a turbulent end to 2025 and symbolically marks the beginning of a new chapter under DarkZero’s ownership.
Broader context for the esports scene
The acquisition of NRG by DarkZero fits into a wider pattern of consolidation within North American esports, where organizations increasingly prioritize sustainability over aggressive expansion. By retaining the brand, rosters, and staff, the deal represents a strategic evolution rather than a crisis-driven decision.
For NRG, the move offers a chance to regain momentum with renewed financial backing and long-term security. For DarkZero, it represents an opportunity to step into a new phase of growth while leveraging one of the most recognizable brands in the region.
