Championship Mindset: Finding the Leaders of Tomorrow
The transition from gaming excellence to professional leadership isn't coincidental—it's systematic. Our distinguished panel will unpack the core competencies that drive success in both arenas: strategic thinking under pressure, rapid decision-making with incomplete information, team coordination across diverse skill sets, and the mental resilience required to perform when stakes are highest.

Future Proof: How AI & Technology are Reshaping the Game

From AI coaches to predictive analytics, technology is revolutionizing how we compete, create, and connect in esports. Get ready for a mind-bending journey into the tools and tech reshaping every corner of competitive gaming.

Networking Break

Refuel with a fresh cup of coffee, network with fellow enthusiasts, and rejuvenate during this lively break before we plunge back into our thrilling EsportsNext sessions!

OK Zoomer: Gen Alpha Takes Over

Move over Millennials and Zoomers - Gen Alpha is rewriting the rulebook! Dive into how gaming's first truly digital-native audience is forcing us to rethink everything from content creation to community building.

Lunch

Competitive Blueprints: Building Tomorrow's Esports Ecosystem

This session explores how leagues and tournament organizers serve as the critical infrastructure for sustainable esports ecosystems. Drawing on their extensive experience, panelists will discuss the evolving relationship between TOs, publishers, and teams, examining both successful models and lessons learned from challenges in the industry.

The discussion will be enriched by multi-faceted perspectives spanning competitive play, organizational leadership, and game development—offering unique insights on creating inclusive esports frameworks.

Creators Rule Everything Around Me: The New Power Players

The line between pros, creators, and teams has blurred forever. Dive into how multi-game influencers, creator collectives, and player-led brands are reshaping the power dynamics of esports. From content strategies to revenue splits, learn how the creator economy is flipping the traditional esports model on its head.

Fireside Chat with FaZe Apex

Don't miss this rare opportunity to gain insights from a visionary who has helped shape one of the most recognized names in gaming and esports culture.

Forging Tomorrow's Leaders: Key Insights from the Next Gen Esports Leadership Lab Powered by SHI

The Next Gen Esports Leadership Lab powered by SHI united key stakeholders across education and industry to address ecosystem disconnects. This session will explore emerging insights from our collaborative discussions and outline potential pathways toward a more integrated esports ecosystem that benefits all participants. Join us as we share preliminary findings and invite your input on shaping our collective path forward.

Building the Future: The Evolving Landscape of Collegiate Esports

This panel brings together leaders from various sectors of collegiate esports to explore the current state and future trajectory of esports in higher education. From establishing competitive programs to integrating esports into academic curricula, panelists will share practical insights on building sustainable esports initiatives and preparing students for careers in the gaming industry. Drawing from their diverse experiences, speakers will discuss best practices, challenges, and opportunities in this rapidly evolving space.

The Texas Esports Phenomenon: Building a Digital Sports Capital

This one-hour session explores how Dallas-Fort Worth and the broader Texas region has emerged as one of North America's premier esports ecosystems. From purpose-built facilities and major organizational headquarters to sold-out arenas and educational integration, we'll examine the unique elements that have positioned Texas at the forefront of competitive gaming's cultural and commercial revolution.

Building a Thriving Esports Trade Ecosystem

This session will provide a blueprint for designing and implementing a vibrant local, state, or regional esports ecosystem that seamlessly integrates educational initiatives with business opportunities. Leave with actionable insights to transform your esports community into an interconnected network of opportunity.