Abstract
PURPOSE: The aim of this research is to explore how leader-member exchange (LMX) affects teamwork through the mediation of psychological empowerment and discusses the interaction between the concepts within the framework of a relational model. Unfortunately, the previous related studies in the literature are limited to the examination of paired relationships between concepts and these concepts have not yet been sufficiently dealt with in relation to esports contexts. Therefore, the present study aims to fill this gap by collecting data from various sources. METHODS: The data of the study, which was conducted with 804 professional esports players from Türkiye, the USA and South Korea who were selected by employing the conventional sampling method, were collected via an online survey and analyzed through structural equation modeling. RESULTS: The findings revealed meaningful effects of leader-member exchange on teamwork and this effect was partially mediated by psychological empowerment. CONCLUSION: These findings are consistent with the Social Exchange Theory, Inputs-Process-Outcomes Model and Positive Organizational Behavior Theory and account for the relationship between leader quality and team performance. The study also contributes to the literature in regards to esports leadership and offers practical suggestions to team coaches and directors.