On December 27th, MI3 hosted the Second Inaugural Cane Catcher Invitational Christmas Special in partnership with XP Network, setting the tone for a day rooted in Cane Catcher culture and competitive energy. Players and spectators filled the space early, with attention quickly shifting to the matchups, the moments, and who was ready to step up. The day unfolded naturally as people gathered to watch, react, and eventually get involved themselves. From the opening runs to the closing moments, the atmosphere reflected what makes Cane Catcher a draw.

1v1s That Set the Tone

The Cane Catcher Invitational was decided in fast, unforgiving 1v1 matchups where players raced to ten points under a 10-second possession clock. There was no time to feel out an opponent or settle into a rhythm. Every possession mattered, and each bucket immediately shifted momentum. Some games stayed tight from start to finish, with both players trading scores and every point carrying weight.

Other matchups broke open quickly. One player would find a groove early, pushing the pace and forcing the opponent to chase the game. That mix of close battles and decisive wins kept the bracket unpredictable and the crowd locked in. With ten competitors chasing a $500 prize, no matchup felt routine and no lead ever felt completely safe.

The First XP Network Shootout Takes Over MI3

While XP Network ensured the 1v1 bracket stayed on track, they also turned intermission into its own moment by launching an XP Network Shootout. What started as a few early shooters quickly drew attention from across the gym, pulling players in from different courts looking to test their luck and chase the $200 prize. As scores climbed, participation followed, eventually building to sixteen total entries through XP Network. The Shootout ended in a tight finish, with a final sixty-second tiebreaker deciding the winner.

More on the Way

The Cane Catcher Invitational is only picking up momentum. With another edition already on the horizon, players should stay locked in as the Cane Catcher experience continues to grow. New opportunities, new competition, and more ways to tap into the culture are coming for those paying attention.