JJ Lin’s Next Power‑Play: Singapore’s Own Esports Dream Team
When you think of the Singaporean sensation JJ Lin, the first image that pops up is a soaring ballad that’s streaming everywhere. But if you’ve ever tuned into a streaming channel or played a quick match of Valorant, you’ll already know that the Mandopop king’s heart beats for more than just music.
From Singing to Streaming
Last Friday, JJ Lin didn’t just drop a new track—he launched an all‑Singaporean esports squad that’s ready to hit the global stage. This team lives inside Team Still Moving Under Gunfire (SMG), the game‑ready org he co‑founded back in 2017 with former‑pro coach Kenchi Yap. FB: SMG
“SMG’s got squads in Shanghai, Malaysia, and now Singapore,” Lin says, flexing a proud Singaporean badge. He’s an active member of the Singapore Esports Association and has already expanded his empire. Earlier this year, he added the Malaysian Mobile Legends squad Makan Cendol to the Shanghai roster that battles it out in PlayerUnknown’s Battlegrounds—a title that’s racked up over 70‑million copies worldwide.
The Dream Squad
For the new Valorant team, it’s all local talent. This month, the squad will riff against the best from the Southeast Asian scene in the Rise of Legion tournament.
- Sha Mohtar – the charismatic captain who turned heads in two Valorant community contests
- Danyal Heng
- Alex Cheang
- Xavier Lee
- Yeoh Chun Ting
- Syafiq Anuar – all seasoned veterans from Counter‑Strike: Global Offensive
Coach Kenneth Ho will be the mastermind behind their tactics. He’s been steering Singapore’s gaming talent for a while, and now gives the new squad a chance to shine.
What’s the Big Picture?
“This is a milestone close to my heart,” Lin proudly states. “Gaming has been a part of me since I was a kid, and now it’s a passion.” He explains that growing up in Singapore—what locals call the little red dot—has instilled in him a desire to build something truly local and take it globally.
He’s not just in it for the trophies. He wants to instill positive values, camaraderie, and a sense of identity in his players. “I want a home‑grown team that can grind hard, succeed, and represent Singapore on the world stage,” he adds.
What You Can Do
Fans can catch the squad’s first showdown on the Rise of Legion virtual tournament starting next Monday and running through July 31st. If you’re craving a mix of cut‑throat competition and heartfelt inspiration, keep your eyes on the all‑Singaporean lineup that JJ Lin is steering into the digital arena.
