A single‑vehicle crash on Interstate 70 just after 8:15 p.m. last night left Brett Ballard, the head coach of Washburn University’s men’s basketball program, with severe injuries. Emergency responders arrived on scene within minutes, and Ballard was transported to a regional trauma center where he remains under medical care.
The Night of the Accident
According to the state patrol’s preliminary report, Ballard’s vehicle left the paved shoulder, struck a delineator post, careened across the grassy embankment and collided with a bridge pillar before coming to rest. The impact caused extensive damage to the car and left the driver with multiple fractures and internal injuries that are being treated surgically.
Ballard has been at the helm of the Ichabods for nine seasons, compiling a record of 198 wins and 81 losses, a .710 winning percentage. Before his current role, he spent seven years on Bill Self’s staff at the University of Kansas, serving in capacities that included director of basketball operations, administrative assistant and volunteer student assistant.
Washburn University released a statement expressing its deepest condolences to Ballard’s family, the basketball program and the broader campus community. The university urged respect for the family’s privacy while it awaits further medical updates and promised to share verified information as it becomes available.
A Community Responds
The university called on fans, alumni and local residents to offer messages of encouragement but asked that speculation about the crash be avoided until official details are released. A fundraising effort has been organized to help offset medical expenses and support the Ballard family during this challenging time.
As the investigation proceeds, Washburn says it will continue to provide updates on Ballard’s condition while focusing on his health and the well‑being of his loved ones. The outpouring of support from across the state reflects the deep impact he has had on the university’s athletic program and the wider basketball community.