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Washburn basketball coach Brett Ballard seriously injured in Topeka vehicle crash

Washburn University men's basketball coach Brett Ballard was seriously injured after his truck struck a bridge pillar on I-470 in Topeka.

Brett Ballard, former Kansas player and current head coach of Washburn University's men’s basketball team, suffered serious injuries in a crash on I-470 near the Kansas turnpike. Police reports indicate his Ford F-150 veered off the road, collided with a delineator post, the embankment and ultimately a bridge pillar. The 46-year-old was restrained by a seatbelt during the incident.

Washburn President JuliAnn Mazachek released a statement expressing sorrow and requesting respect for the family’s privacy. Football coach Zach Watkins also conveyed his support, noting prayers from the team and plans to assist the family. No further details have been released at this time.

Why it matters

The injury sidelines a prominent college basketball coach, affecting Washburn's one outlet's program and community.

In this story

Brett BallardWashburn basketballcar crashI-470Kansas Highway Patrolserious injurycoachTopeka