Super Smash Bros. esports sponsors are not typically drawn to Super Smash Bros., leaving many top players without a team. However, the Melee community was not going to let a team openly undervalue one of the best players in the world.
In October, Sentinels CEO Rob Moore stated that the team would sign top Melee player Cody Schwab if Zachary “zekken” Patrone and the team’s VALORANT squad won the Sentinels Invitational. They did win, and negotiations between both sides have been ongoing since then. Unfortunately, the deal fell through.
On November 22, Moore provided an update on the contract talks, stating that Sentinels made what they believed to be a fair offer, but Cody and his team thought they could find a better deal elsewhere. Moore wished Cody the best despite the failed negotiations.
However, the use of the term “marketplace offer” in Moore’s statement caused controversy. Cody responded indirectly, stating that he wanted to keep the situation with Sentinels cordial but felt the proposed deal was not beneficial for either side. He revealed that the offer would have made him the lowest compensated player among Melee’s top 10, with no guaranteed travel to tournaments. Additionally, there were two other stipulations in the deal that would have cost him money, which no other Melee player had ever conceded in their contracts. Cody clarified that he was not being greedy or deluded for seeking a better deal.
The Melee community rallied behind Cody, assuring him that he could find a better offer in the future. They criticized Moore for his unprofessional handling of the situation, with some suggesting that Sentinels simply did not want to pay what Cody was worth.
Despite the disappointment, Cody remains optimistic as a free agent and the best player in the world. He expressed regret that he would have to search for an offer above market value, as the proposed deal did not meet his expectations.
The public backlash against Sentinels’ lowball offer highlights the challenges faced by Melee players in securing fair contracts and sponsorships. Cody’s previous experiences with Panda and CLG further emphasize the need for players to find stable and supportive organizations.
As the controversy unfolds, Cody is moving forward and focusing on his future in Michigan.
Source: DOTESPORTS
