BECKLEY, WV (LOOTPRESS) – New River Community and Technical College has released the full schedule for the 8th Annual New River CTC Invitational, set for January 5–10, 2026, at the Beckley-Raleigh County Convention Center.
College officials say this year’s event is expected to be one of the most competitive yet, with multiple preseason state-ranked high school basketball teams confirmed to participate.
The Invitational has become the college’s signature event and its largest annual fundraiser.
In addition to showcasing top-tier regional athletic talent, the tournament helps connect families and student-athletes with educational and workforce programs available at New River CTC.
Michael Green, Chief of Staff and Vice President of External Affairs at New River CTC, underscored the importance of the tournament, 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.”
Several programs featured in the WVSSAC Preseason Boys Basketball Poll will take the court during the weeklong event, including:
- 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
The presence of these ranked teams adds depth and statewide attention to this year’s Invitational, setting the stage for strong matchups throughout the week.
Southern West Virginia will again be well represented, with Liberty, Independence, Princeton, Summers County, Greenbrier East, Greenbrier West, and several ranked programs—including Woodrow Wilson (#9 AAAA), Shady Spring (#4 AAA), Westside (#9 AA), and James Monroe (#8 AA)—competing.
These teams consistently draw some of the highest attendance and are expected to bring strong community support.
Continuing a beloved tradition, the Invitational will feature a Special Olympics exhibition on Saturday, Jan. 10, highlighting basketball teams from Raleigh and Fayette counties.
More information, including sponsorship opportunities, is available at nrctcf.org.
