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Washburn University men’s basketball head coach Brett Ballard was seriously injured in a car accident on Tuesday, August 4, in Topeka, Kansas, the school confirmed.
“We are deeply saddened to share that Coach Brett Ballard was seriously injured in a car accident last evening,” university president JuliAnn Mazachek said in a statement on Wednesday, August 5. “Our hearts are with Coach Ballard, his family, the men’s basketball program and all who are affected during this difficult time.”
The statement continued, “We ask our community to keep them in their thoughts during this time of recovery and to respect the family’s privacy. The university will share additional information when appropriate.”
The accident occurred when Ballard’s 2024 Ford F-150 veered off the road and struck a delineator post, embankment and a bridge pillar, according to Kansas Highway Patrol’s online crash log. The log also states that Ballard, 46, was wearing his seat belt at the time.
Ballard was the only person in the car and there were no other injuries reported or vehicles involved in the accident.
Ballard was named head coach at Division II Washburn, located in Topeka, in 2017, and has led the Ichabods to the NCAA Tournament six times. Before that, he was an assistant coach at Division I Wake Forest University and the University of Tulsa. He also spent seven years as an assistant for Hall of Fame coach Bill Self at the University of Kansas, his alma mater, where he was on staff for the team’s 2008 National Championship.
Ballard and his wife, Kelly, have three children: sons Kaden and Brooks, and daughter Breagan. Kaden was a freshman for the Ichabods last year, appearing in 14 games.
As news of Ballard’s accident has spread through the basketball world, the coaching community has begun to show its support.
“Thoughts and prayers to Brett,” Wake Forest men’s basketball coach Steve Forbes wrote via X.
“Our prayers are going to the entire Ballard family,” Washburn women’s basketball coach Lora Westling added via X. “Coach is as tough as they come and has an entire community behind him as he recovers. The Washburn family is special for a reason. Thoughts, prayers, and strength to everyone who can use it today.”
Longtime Kansas beat writer Matt Tait sent his well wishes via X.
“Not a better dude out there,” he wrote. “In every way. Big prayers to Brett and Kelly and the entire family.”
