WASHINGTON, D.C.: According to Sports Illustrated High School, the 2026 Behan Strong Invitational features elite Jordan Smith Jr high school basketball action as Paul VI Catholic and St. John’s College headline the fourth annual tournament scheduled for January 3rd, with proceeds supporting former coach Pat Behan’s fight against ALS.
Tournament Purpose and Impact
The event at Gallagher Gymnasium brings together eight high schools including St. Mary’s Annapolis, St. Mary’s Ryken, Episcopal, Jackson-Reed, Gonzaga and Bullis. Additionally, all proceeds benefit Pat Behan, the former St. John’s College head coach diagnosed with familial ALS in 2022 at age 34. Meanwhile, Behan’s coaching journey spanned multiple programs after his professional basketball career in Germany, culminating with leading St. John’s to the 2023 Washington Catholic Athletic Conference championship in his final season.
Elite Matchup Features Jordan Smith Jr High School Basketball Star
Paul VI enters as Virginia’s top-ranked team and the No. 6 squad in High School On SI’s national rankings, led by talented senior guard Jordan Smith Jr., who ranks among the nation’s top prospects. However, St. John’s represents equally formidable opposition as Washington D.C.’s top-ranked program. Therefore, this WCAC rivalry matchup promises elite competition between two championship-caliber programs.
- Paul VI holds Virginia’s No. 1 ranking and national No. 6 status
- St. John’s carries the top ranking in Washington D.C.
- Eight total schools participate in the January 3rd event
Community Support and Fundraising Efforts
The tournament extends beyond basketball through meaningful community engagement. Furthermore, a silent auction features autographed basketballs, posters, jerseys and a signed University of Maryland Terrapins football with swag bag. Additionally, organizers auction a $300 meet-and-greet opportunity with Charlotte Hornets head coach Charles Lee.
On January 2nd, the entire Paul VI team demonstrated their support through social media.
“Hey Coach Behan, we just want to let you know that you motivate and inspire us with your fight,” Smith said in the message posted on the behanstrong Instagram account.
The heartfelt message concluded with the Panthers reciting in unison their love for the former coach, showcasing the high school basketball community’s unity during challenging times.
The Behan Strong Invitational exemplifies how Jordan Smith Jr 2026 basketball recruiting excellence combines with meaningful community impact, as elite programs compete while supporting a beloved coach’s courageous battle. For full coverage of national recruiting updates and elite prospect movement, visit Prospect-Radar.com.
