Team Liquid parts ways with mid-laner Eain 'APA' Stearns after two-year tenure

    Team Liquid has announced the departure of North American mid laner Eain 'APA' Stearns, ending his two-year stint on the organisation's main roster.

    team-liquid-logo116 team-liquid-logo116

    The news was revealed in a social media video following a disappointing 2025 season that saw Liquid fall short of expectations.

    APA joined Team Liquid in 2022, initially representing the organisation's Challengers team before earning promotion to the main roster.

    Over the following two years, he established himself as one of North America's standout midlaners, helping Liquid secure the LCS 2024 Spring Split title and finish second in the 2024 Summer Split.

    His individual accolades included All-Pro Team honours and the Most Improved Player award that same year.

    However, 2025 brought a downturn in results. Liquid placed fourth in both Split 1 and Split 2, before slipping to sixth in Split 3 of the LTA North season, missing out on qualification for both the Mid-Season Invitational and the World Championship.

    The team's lacklustre campaign prompted organisational restructuring ahead of the 2026 LCS season.

    In parting, Team Liquid acknowledged APA's contributions and development over his time with the roster.

    Despite the underwhelming year, his tenure remains defined by significant success and personal growth.