TOPEKA, Kan. (WIBW) – The basketball world has rallied around Washburn men’s basketball coach Brett Ballard following a single-vehicle crash Tuesday night in Topeka.
Since news of the crash on Wednesday morning, coaches, former players, fans and programs from across Kansas and around the country have shared messages of encouragement and prayers for Ballard and his family.
READ: Washburn basketball coach Brett Ballard seriously injured in Tuesday crash
“Praying for Coach Ballard and his family during this difficult time,” MIAA Commissioner Mike Racy wrote.”
“Thoughts and prayers to Brett,” Wake Forest men’s basketball coach Steve Forbes said.
“Our prayers are going to and the entire Ballard family,” Washburn women’s basketball coach Lora Westling wrote on 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.”
“Thoughts and Prayers for Brett and his family,” Pitt State men’s basketball coach and former KU teammate Jeff Boschee said.
“Been praying for the Ballard family all day,” Friends University and former Washburn assistant Nick Jones said. “One of the toughest guys out there. Love you Coach.”
“Our thoughts and prayers are with Coach Ballard, his family, and the Ichabod men’s basketball community,” Point Loma men’s basketball coach Justin Downer wrote on X.
“Not a better dude out there,” wrote longtime KU sports writer Matt Tait on social media. “In every way. Big prayers to Brett and Kelly and the entire family.”
13 NEWS confirmed the crash and details with Washburn University on Wednesday morning. University President JuliAnn Mazachek shared this statement.
“We are deeply saddened to share that Coach Brett Ballard was seriously injured in a car accident last evening. Our hearts are with Coach Ballard, his family, the men’s basketball program and all who are affected during this difficult time. 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 university has not released additional information on his condition.
According to Kansas Highway Patrol, the crash happened Tuesday night in Topeka. Ballard was the lone occupant of the vehicle and was taken to Stormont Vail Hospital.
The overwhelming response reflects the impact Ballard has made during nearly a decade leading the Ichabods.
Entering his 10th season as Washburn’s head coach, Ballard has guided the Ichabods to multiple NCAA Tournament appearances and MIAA championships while building one of Division II’s most consistent programs. Beyond the wins, Ballard has earned widespread respect throughout the coaching profession for his leadership and relationships with players and coaches across the country.
Throughout Wednesday, those relationships were on full display as the basketball community united behind one of its own.
Washburn has not provided an update on Ballard’s condition beyond its initial statement.
As we learn more, we’ll keep you update on WIBW.com.
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