If you needed further proof of the growing popularity of esports, Point Park University is hosting a multi-game esports tournament this spring.
Point Park’s Rowland School of Business, in partnership with the Pittsburgh Penguins, Cleveland Cavaliers and Pittsburgh Knights, is presenting the tournament May 10-12 at the Pittsburgh Playhouse in Downtown.
In case you’re wondering, esports are multi-player video games played competitively for spectators. It has become a billion-dollar industry. The Knights are Pittsburgh’s first professional esports team.
“It’s unique to have three professional teams from two cities supporting Point Park University in this exciting esports venture,” said James Santilli, senior vice president of marketing for the Penguins.
The Steel City Showdown will feature competitions in three games — Super Smash Bros., NBA 2K and NHL 2K — with prizes of $1,000 for first place and $500 for second in each tournament.
“It’s long overdue for Pittsburgh to really get behind one of these tournaments, and our Playhouse is the perfect venue for it,” said Steve Tanzilli, dean of the Rowland School of Business. “The university is heavily invested in esports, through both this event and our business of esports course that will help develop professionals in the industry with event management and business skills.”
Len Komoroski, CEO of the Cleveland Cavaliers and Quicken Loans Arena, said esports is rapidly growing in popularity from Cleveland to Pittsburgh and beyond.
“This may be the first esports tournament for many gamers in the Pittsburgh area, so we are excited to help bring this to life and provide a fun and educational experience for all those who attend,” Komoroski said.
Tickets for both spectators and competitors are available online at www.PittsburghPlayhouse.com.
