KANSAS CITY, Mo. – Cooper Howell of Fort Hays State was named the MIAA Hitter of the Week for Monday, May 4, 2026 following a strong performance over a 3-game series with Newman last weekend in Hays. He helped the Tigers qualify for the MIAA Tournament for a third-straight season.
 
Howell posted a slash line of .625 avg/.750 obp/1.250 slg pct in his final three home games as a Tiger, helping Fort Hays State win two of three games against Newman to grab the final spot in the 10-team MIAA Tournament field. The shortstop was 5-for-8 on the week with one home run, two doubles, five RBIs and four runs scored. The senior hit a go-ahead home run in the fourth inning on Senior Day, putting the Tigers on top for good. He also walked three times and did not strike out in 13 plate appearances for the week. On defense, Howell converted on 19 of 20 chances at shortstop and was involved in three double plays.
 
Howell joined Gavin Wilhelm of Washburn (MIAA Pitcher of the Week) as the weekly honorees from the conference office. It was the second time this season the Tigers had a Hitter of the Week after Derek Woolwine received the honor following the first week of the season.