BOSTON, Mass. – The Boston Uprising announced today the departure of assistant coaches Jordan “Gunba” Graham and Jackson “Shake” Kaplan, as well as the hiring of new assistant coach Ilias “iLka” Kaskanetas.
Gunba joined the Uprising as an assistant coach in October 2018 and helped facilitate a run that resulted in the Uprising reaching the Stage 1 playoffs during the 2019 season. He began his tenure in Overwatch League with the Los Angeles Valiant, serving as an assistant coach from January 2018 to October 2018. He also coached Team Australia past qualifying rounds and into the elimination bracket for the 2018 World Cup.
Shake has been part of the Uprising coaching staff since the team’s inception, serving as an assistant coach for two seasons. Previously a support player for Counter Logic Gaming, he transitioned into a coaching role and helped guide the Uprising through the first two seasons of the OWL, including the team’s historic perfect third stage of the 2018 season.
Both Gunba and Shake are currently exploring other options.
“We’re thankful for all the hard work Gunba and Shake have put in to help lead the Uprising,” Chris “HuK” Loranger said. “We wish them all the best in their future endeavors and hope to see them both land with new teams soon.”
The Uprising’s new assistant coach, iLka, most recently led Angry Titans in European Contenders 2019 Season 2. Prior to his head coaching position with Angry Titans, the 22-year-old from Greece was an assistant coach with Atlanta Academy, where he helped the team finish second place in 2019 Contenders NA West and qualify for the Atlantic Showdown.
“My goal for the new year is to dedicate myself into turning this all around and to help the team climb up the ranks,” iLka said. “I’m also very keen on self-improvement, so I think being a part of the Overwatch League will help me grow a lot as a coach and as a person. I am certain we can achieve big things with hard work and head coach Mineral’s leadership.”
“We’re looking forward to having iLka on the Uprising coaching staff going into the 2020 season,” HuK said. “We’re impressed by what he’s been able to accomplish in previous coaching roles and think he has earned a spot in the Overwatch League.
