Washburn Coach Severely Injured in Crash | Topeka News

Topeka News Today | 2 Min News | The Daily News Now! · Aug 5, 2026 · 1m

Washburn University’s beloved head basketball coach, Brett Ballard, suffered a life-altering crash on I-70 while driving alone in his pickup truck — the vehicle veered off the road, hit markers, plunged down an embankment, and slammed into a bridge pillar. Wearing his seatbelt, Ballard was rushed to Stormont Vail Health with serious injuries. The community is reeling as he enters his ninth season, having led the team to the NCAA Division II National Semifinals last year. University officials have asked for privacy during his recovery, emphasizing their focus on his health and family. This…