Photo courtesy of Wisconsin Athletics
MADISON, Wis. (Sports Network) - Wisconsin star running back Montee Ball was the victim of "an unprovoked assault" early Wednesday morning.
According to the Madison police report, Ball was attacked by five men while walking on University Ave. He was knocked to the ground and kicked before being hospitalized with head injuries.
Wisconsin head coach Bret Bielema issued a statement Wednesday, but gave no details on Ball's condition.
"My concern right now is for Montee's health and well-being," Bielema stated. "Montee has been released from the hospital and is under the care and supervision of our sports medicine staff. We will continue to evaluate him as we approach the start of fall camp this weekend. I do expect Montee to make a full recovery."
Ball then sent a message via twitter.
"I appreciate the support and thank you for the concerns.I will be okay!" Ball tweeted. "See you guys in September!"
Ball is returning for his senior season after finishing fourth in the balloting for the Heisman Trophy last fall. He tied an NCAA record with 39 touchdowns last season and led the nation with 1,923 rushing yards.