WACO, TX. – Pace University Esports Valorant concluded a historic run at the Collegiate Esports Commissioners Cup (CECC) on Day 3, falling 2-1 to Fisher College Navy in the semifinals to finish tied for third place alongside Texas A&M.
Entering the tournament as the #14 seed, the Setters delivered one of the most impressive runs in CECC history, becoming the lowest-seeded team ever to reach the semifinals and secure a top-three/top-four finish at the national event.
Pace opened the tournament with a strong showing in group play before carrying that momentum into bracket competition. In the Round of 16, the Setters defeated #3 seed San José State University convincingly, setting the tone for a deep postseason push. Pace followed with another statement performance in the quarterfinals, taking down #11 seed Stony Brook University in a tightly contested 2-1 series to advance to the final four.
Facing #2 seed Fisher College Navy in the semifinals, the Setters battled throughout the series but ultimately came up short in a 2-1 decision, bringing their tournament run to a close.
Despite the result, Pace's performance marked a significant milestone for the program. Competing as underdogs, the Blue and Gold showcased high-level execution and the ability to compete with the nation's top collegiate teams, solidifying their place among the elite programs in the CECC field.
The third-place finish represents one of the most successful national tournament performances in program history and sets a new standard for Pace Esports moving forward.