BEAVER, W.Va. (WVDN) – New River Community and Technical College is excited to announce the schedule for the 8th Annual New River CTC Invitational, taking place January 5–10, 2026. This year’s tournament is shaping up to be one of the most competitive yet, with numerous preseason state-ranked teams set to participate.
The tournament, held at the Beckley-Raleigh County Convention Center, has grown into the college’s signature event and remains its largest annual fundraiser. The Invitational not only showcases regional athletic talent but also connects families and student-athletes with the educational and workforce opportunities available at New River CTC.
Michael Green, Chief of Staff and Vice President of External Affairs at New River CTC, emphasized the importance of the event, stating: “The New River CTC Invitational is an opportunity for us to connect with students and their families while supporting area high schools and their athletes.”
Ranked Teams Participating in the 2026 Invitational
According to the WVSSAC Preseason Boys Basketball Poll, several ranked teams will appear throughout the week:
- Nitro Wildcats – #3 in Class AAA
- Shady Spring Tigers – #4 in Class AAA
- Westside Renegades – #9 in Class AA
- James Monroe Mavericks – #8 in Class AA
- Greater Beckley Christian Crusaders – #4 in Class A
- Summit Christian Academy Falcons – #8 in Class A
- Man Hillbillies – #10 in Class A
- University Hawks – #7 in Class AAAA
- Huntington Highlanders – #5 in Class AAAA
- Martinsburg Bulldogs – #7 in Class AAAA
- Woodrow Wilson Flying Eagles – #9 in Class AAAA
These ranked programs add significant depth and statewide attention to this year’s Invitational, promising high-level matchups throughout the week.
Local Teams to Watch
In addition to the strong statewide competition, the Invitational will showcase several local and regional programs that draw some of the largest crowds each year. Southern West Virginia will be well represented, with Woodrow Wilson (#9 AAAA), Shady Spring (#4 AAA), Liberty, Independence, Westside (#9 AA), Princeton, Summers County, Greenbrier East, Greenbrier West, and James Monroe (#8 AA) all competing throughout the week. These familiar programs are expected to bring high energy and enthusiastic community support to the Beckley-Raleigh County Convention Center.
This year’s Invitational will feature an exciting lineup of high school teams competing throughout the week.
Special Olympics Event Returns
The 2026 event will also include a special exhibition featuring the Raleigh and Fayette County Special Olympics basketball teams on Saturday, January 10, continuing one of the tournament’s most meaningful traditions.
For more information or to become a sponsor, visit nrctcf.org.
