Maden begins IGL transition with BIG Academy

BIG has signed 27-year-old Pavle “Maden” Bošković to lead its academy team as in-game leader. The Montenegrin is beginning a transition from player to captain after indicating in May that he was considering the role.

Maden will lead a roster featuring 16-year-old Nikolas “Hrdina” Hutira and 19-year-old Anton “doni” Savienkov. The team also includes 20-year-old Asim “aZe” Khodzhaev and David “prosus” Hesse, who has moved between BIG’s academy and main teams twice since 2023.

BIG Academy has appointed former Young Ninjas coach Daniel “sprayxd” Kogan. He replaces Timo “Spiidi” Richter, who left the position to focus on his academic career.

“The last period of my career hasn’t gone the way I wanted, so I’ve decided to take a new path,” Maden said in a statement. “Leading a team is something I’ve wanted to do for a long time, and I can’t think of a better place to start than BIG. I’m looking forward to reinvent myself in the server and building something from the ground up with a young, hungry roster and helping the next generation of talent grow.”

BIG Chief Gaming Officer Roman “Roman R.” Reinhardt said Maden had opportunities to continue playing at the highest level but chose to pursue in-game leadership.

“He has chosen our academy to help young players improve, build a team and show what he can do as a captain,” Reinhardt added. “He brings years of experience at the highest level and the personal qualities you need to lead a team.”

Maden was last under contract with fnatic, where he was benched in March before becoming a free agent the following month. He briefly played for the mixed team illwill before the summer break. Before joining fnatic, he represented ENCE and Falcons.

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