It cost millions to join the Overwatch League. Teams are pushing for a break.

When the Overwatch League launched its inaugural season in 2018, eager investors were sold on the promise of a booming future for esports, with participation in the league predicated on a $20 million franchise fee. Among those investors were Sacramento Kings co-owner Andy Miller, New England Patriots owner Robert Kraft and Los Angeles Rams owner Stan Kroenke. In an approach that was unique in esports, the Overwatch League tied its teams to cities rather than esports organizations. This was intended to help teams capture and control certain markets which they could then work with advertisers to target.