Hopper Leads Blue Raiders as Middle Tennessee Sits Seventh After Opening Round of CUSA Championship

Monday, April 27

Texarkana, Ark.

Middle Tennessee

Conference USA Championship

4/27/2026 5:17:00 PM | Men's Golf

TEXARKANA, Ark. — Middle Tennessee opened play at the 2026 Conference USA Men's Golf Championship on Monday and sits seventh after the first round at Texarkana Country Club.

The Blue Raiders posted a team score of 3-over-par 291, just 12 shots off the tournament lead. UTEP and New Mexico State are tied atop the leaderboard at 9-under-par 279, while Liberty is third at 4-under-par 284 and Kennesaw State is fourth at 3-under-par 285.

Jake Hopper paced Middle Tennessee with a 2-under-par 70 and is tied for ninth individually after 18 holes. Hopper sits just three shots back of the individual lead entering Tuesday's second round.

Connor Henry also turned in a strong opening round, carding a 1-under-par 71 to tie for 12th. Carter Maneth is tied for 30th at 2-over-par 74, while Oliver Baker is tied for 46th after a 4-over-par 76. Maddox Crowder rounds out the lineup tied for 50th at 6-over-par 78.

The Conference USA Championship continues Tuesday with the second round, followed by the final round on Wednesday with the top four teams advancing to match play on Thursday.

The Lineup
• Jake Hopper is tied for ninth at 2-under 70.
• Connor Henry is tied for 12th at 1-under 71.
• Carter Maneth is tied for 30th at 2-over 74.
• Oliver Baker is tied for 46th at 4-over 76.
• Maddox Crowder is tied for 50th at 6-over 78.

Coach's Comments: Mark McEntire
"Great rounds today from Jake and Connor.," said Head Coach Mark McEntire. "I know Carter will bounce back and play better over the next two rounds as well. We'll get some help tomorrow from our four and five spots. Looking forward to making a move, climbing the leaderboard, and putting ourselves in position."

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