Brett Ballard Injured in Turnpike Crash
Aug. 5, 2026, 11:51 a.m. CT — Brett Ballard, head men's basketball coach at Washburn University, sustained serious injuries in a crash on the Kansas Turnpike at 8:17 p.m. Aug. 4, approximately six miles northeast of the South Topeka exit.
Ballard, 46, was driving a 2024 Ford F-150 pickup truck when it veered off westbound I-70, struck a delineator post and a bridge pillar, according to the Kansas Highway Patrol. He was transported to Stormont Vail Health; further details on his condition have not been released.
The accident report indicates Ballard was wearing a seat belt at the time of the incident.
In a statement released on Aug. 5, Washburn President JuliAnn Mazachek expressed deep concern for Ballard and his family. “We are saddened to share that Coach Brett Ballard was seriously injured in a car accident last evening. Our hearts are with Coach Ballard, his family, and all who are affected during this difficult time. We ask our community to keep them in their thoughts and to respect the family's privacy.”
Ballard, who played at the University of Kansas, has a career record of 167-79 and was entering his ninth season as head coach at Washburn. During the 2024-2025 season, his team achieved a 30-4 record and reached the NCAA Division II National Semifinals.
Additional updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
Contact Tim Hrenchir at 785-213-5934 or tim.hrenchir@cjonline.com.