NYXL Star Pine Retires from Professional Overwatch
By Noam Radcliffe | Dec 6, 2019, 2:36 PM EST
The New York Excelsior announced the retirement of Do-hyeon "Pine" Kim on Friday after a largely inactive season.
Pine shot to prominence in the inaugural season of the Overwatch League, when his skill and playmaking with McCree and Widowmaker made him a star. After several highlight plays in his first in-game appearances, Pine earned the nickname of the Big Boss.
The Big Boss is retiring. From the bottom of our hearts, we thank @tf2pine for everything he's done for NYXL.
— NYXL (@NYXL) December 6, 2019
We're excited to announce that he'll continue to be part of our family as a streamer with @andbox_official. #EverUpward pic.twitter.com/AZjnkblRj2
After his early success, Pine struggled with anxiety and depression that kept him largely out of the spotlight. Deployed mostly on Control maps to begin with, Pine's appearances become even sporadic throughout most of Overwatch League Season 1 and Season 2. He still managed to qualify for the Atlantic All-Star team both seasons.
Pine was known as much for his personality as for his skill. His on-stage antics, including a few key dabs and a quick fall off the aforementioned stage, further built his fan-favorite persona.
Pine will continue streaming the banner of NYXL ownership Andbox.