Onic Philippines has parted ways with head coach Denver “Yeb” Miranda, ending a two-season stint that saw him steer the team to a runner-up finish in the M3 World Championship last year.
The esports organization announced the development on Monday, June 20, stunning the entire community with arguably the biggest off-season move so far in the MPL Philippines.
However, the move didn’t come as a surprise to some, especially with the veteran tactician having been long rumored to join an Indonesian team. Speculations even grew after some fans posted screenshots of him joining Indonesia’s Onic Esports coaching staff during the recently concluded MSC 2022.
“He is more than a coach. He served as the backbone of our strength, he served as the foundation to the team and he brought out the fire and passion of our players. We would like to thank Paul Denver "Coach Yeb" for his time with ONIC Philippines. We will make sure to bring and uphold all the lessons and advice you have brought to us,” said Onic in a post on its official Faceboook page.
“More importantly, Coach Yeb has taught us not only to have fun but made us all realize what a real family is. Thank you for teaching us that no matter what happens, we are a family here at ONIC, no matter where we go. May you still live on with all the love and memories that we have formed not just as a coach, but also as a family. Best of luck on your journey! Salamat, Coach Yeb!,” it added.
With Yeb at the helm, Onic rose to relevance anew after a lackluster showing in Seasons 6 and 7. Onic PH placed second in Season 8 which allowed the team to earn a ticket to the M3 Worlds. Onic was then best remembered for its unbeaten run in the upper bracket finals to reach the M3 Grand Finals where it lost to Blacklist International.
Onic, however, had a roller-coaster ride in Season 9 where it finished fourth in the tournament.