Do Meta Teams REALLY Matter?

Arena viability is the most important aspect of the game. This is where you get your crystal income which is the most valuable currency. You don't have to follow the meta to do well but you do have to have a competitive edge. Through Rey meta I farmed up a fun Phasma led team with the geonosians and used gspy to absolutely wreck every Rey I came across. I've been running a JKA led Jedi/clone counter team since Wiggs/Lando first started popping up and punish their speed and squishiness. Now with my whole shard turning to empire/Boba I'm running Rex lead and laughing in Palpatine's face (Though I actually think empire looks fun so I might actually follow this meta). I've never ranked below top 20 (except the random day here and there that real life prevents playing), most days I'm top 10, and once or twice a week I hit top 5. Doing well in the arena gives you an advantage I every other aspect of the game. Make it a priority.