The Philadelphia 76ers' ownership group has acquired controlling stakes in both Team Dignitas and Apex Gaming and plan to merge the two under the Dignitas name, according to a press release from the organization Monday. The move makes the Sixers the first professional North American sports team to own an esports organization.
Dignitas managing director Michael O'Dell will continue with the new, Sixers-owned Dignitas as the team's president, while former Apex co-owner Michael Slan will serve as vice-president and general manager. Gaming executive and investor Greg Richardson will act as chairman of the new Dignitas organization.
The release states that "the Sixers intend to manage the day-to-day operations of Team Dignitas," including marketing and sponsorship strategies but also allocating resources to player development and wellness.
The newly-merged Dignitas inherits the League of Legends NA LCS spot retained by Apex Gaming after placing 7th in the NA LCS 2016 Summer Split.
