Idols Aim for Ace: SKE48 Launches All-Female Valorant Team!

Look Sports Media – The Japanese idol group SKE48 is making waves in the esports scene with the announcement of their all-female Valorant team. Seven members of the popular group will be stepping onto the virtual battlefield, aiming to challenge the traditionally male-dominated esports landscape. The full roster and team name will be revealed during a press conference on August 19th.

For those unfamiliar with SKE48, this massively popular idol group boasts 13 generations of members, with the current lineup including 40 members and 17 trainees (kenkyuusei). Born from the AKB48 family, SKE48 itself has a sister group, JKT48, based in Jakarta. These idols are multi-talented performers, skilled in singing, dancing, acting, and modeling—and now, competitive gaming.

This ambitious project represents a "fresh new challenge" for the idols, pushing them to become "serious esports players," according to the group’s press release. Miyo Nomura and Yua Kawamura have already been confirmed as members of the seven-person team. Training will take place at the luxurious SPASPO Shinuykan hot spring inn, providing a unique and potentially relaxing environment for their intensive preparation.

The initiative aims to break down gender stereotypes in esports, offering a new role model for aspiring female gamers. SKE48 hopes to inspire innovation within the entertainment industry and contribute to the growth of the Nagoya esports scene, collaborating with local governments and community organizations.

While not expected to immediately compete at the VCT Game Changers level, the team’s ambition is undeniable. Nomura, a self-described newcomer to Valorant, expresses her excitement to "see a whole new world through esports," highlighting the growing opportunities for women in professional Valorant, particularly with events like Europe’s BEACONS Game Changers. The team will share their journey through behind-the-scenes content and fan engagement events.

The August 19th press conference at the SKE48 Theater in Nagoya promises to be a significant event, unveiling the complete roster and team name to the world. This bold move by SKE48 is sure to capture the attention of both esports enthusiasts and idol fans alike, potentially sparking a new era of crossover entertainment.