A well-known Kansas college basketball coach and former Jayhawks player, Brett Ballard, is in the hospital with serious injuries following a highway accident on Tuesday night. The incident involved Washburn University head coach Ballard, aged 46, who was driving his 2024 Ford F-150.
According to the Kansas Highway Patrol, Ballard was driving west on Interstate 470 in Topeka when the crash occurred shortly after 8:15 p.m. His truck veered off the left side of the road, hit a delineator post, went down a steep embankment, and collided with a concrete bridge pillar. The vehicle sustained severe damage. Ballard was the only occupant and was wearing his seatbelt at the time of the crash. First responders took him to Stormont Vail Hospital in Topeka for medical care.
“We are deeply saddened to share that Coach Brett Ballard was seriously injured in a car accident last evening,” said Washburn University President JuliAnn Mazachek. “Our hearts are with Coach Ballard, his family, the men’s basketball program, and all who are affected during this difficult time.”
Ballard is a highly-visible figure in Kansas basketball. He played as a guard for the Kansas Jayhawks from 2000 to 2002 under renowned coach Roy Williams. He later spent seven years on Bill Self’s coaching staff. Since then, Ballard has led the Washburn Ichabods for nine seasons, creating one of Division II’s most steady programs.
Throughout his tenure, Ballard has achieved a 198-81 overall record and guided the team to multiple NCAA Tournament appearances, establishing the Ichabods as a consistent MIAA contender. Before Washburn, he coached at Baker University, leading the Wildcats to a Heart of America Athletic Conference title and an NAIA national tournament showing.
His accomplishments have earned him respect across the Kansas basketball community. Following the accident, supporters from Kansas and beyond have sent messages of support, hoping for good news on his recovery.
The investigation into the crash continues, and authorities have not provided further details regarding its cause.