The “hibachi” might be on the cooler right now, but “Agent Zero” is still taking the time to sponsor up and coming professional gamers for the first online MLG Pro Circuit event of 2008.

Major League Gaming today announced that the 2008 Pro Circuit will start with a Halo 3 tournament sponsored by NBA star Gilbert Arenas. Over 2,500 teams have already registered for the online competition, which began on January 14, 2008. An enthusiastic gamer, Arenas sponsors the 2007 MLG Pro Circuit champions “Final Boss” and his sponsorship of MLG’s online tournament covers registration fees for thousands of gamers across North America competing for positions in MLG’s first live event in April.

“I’m thrilled to give gamers the opportunity to compete in MLG’s first Pro Circuit online competition,” said Arenas. “It’s exciting to help players take the first step toward becoming a professional gamer.”