Sept. 18, 2026, 4:10 p.m. CT — Washburn University head basketball coach Brett Ballard has been diagnosed with a neurological episode that caused a serious crash on Aug. 4.
Authorities said Ballard, 36, was driving a 2024 Ford F-150 pickup truck on the Kansas Turnpike when he reportedly experienced a medical incident. The accident occurred around 9:17 p.m., approximately six miles northeast of the south Topeka exit. Witnesses reported that he appeared to have fallen asleep before drifting off the roadway.
The crash involved several events: the truck left the road, struck a delineator post, and collided with a bridge pillar, ultimately coming to rest perpendicular to the roadway. Ballard was found unconscious and had to be extricated from the vehicle, although he was wearing a seat belt. No tickets were issued, and alcohol was not a factor.
Ballard spent about a week in the hospital following the incident. He expressed gratitude for the support he has received and indicated that he is making a full recovery.
He is entering his ninth season as head coach at Washburn, where he has a career record of 167-79. Ballard's team achieved a 30-4 record during the 2024-2025 season, reaching the NCAA Division II National Semifinals.
The Kansas Highway Patrol is continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash.