Columbus Crew are the current holders of the trophy, having defeated Sporting KC 4–1 in an overall dominant performance, finishing the tournament 4–0–1.

Four Major League Soccer clubs—FC Dallas, Houston Dynamo, the New York Red Bulls, and Toronto FC were invited to participate in the weekend (Thursday through Saturday) knockout tournament.

The tournament was held February 25–27, approximately one month before the regular season kicked off on March 25.

In the opener, the hosts were upended by 2010 MLS Cup runner-up FC Dallas, 1–0, while Houston defeated Toronto, 3–2.

In the consolation match, Orlando upset Toronto while FC Dallas earned their first-ever title with a 5–3 penalty kicks victory following a 1–1 draw.