Madison police continue to investigate the attack against University of Wisconsin-Madison running back Montee Ball in addition to the fight preceding it on July 27 and will handle disciplinary action of those involved, although no arrests have been made.
Badgers Football Head Coach Bret Bielema said on the Jim Rome radio show Thursday while he will take minor action against the football players who were involved in the July 27 fight, he will leave the majority of punishment to police.
The fight, which preceded the July 31 attack on Ball, involved UW-Madison students, members of the football team and other individuals.
During the radio show, Bielema said 15 to 20 football players were at a party where “something briefly went down.”
“Two of my other players were involved,” Bielema said. “I’ve taken some actions with them and kind of let that be what it is, because, again, the police were involved in that situation.”
There is no evidence to suggest Ball was present at the incident on July 27, according to Madison Police Department spokesperson Joel DeSpain.
Detectives are investigating if there is a connection between the fight on the “unprovoked attack” on Ball, according to DeSpain.
Five unidentified African-American men attacked the 21-year-old Ball while he was walking with friends on the 500 block of University Avenue around 2 a.m. Wednesday, according to DeSpain.
Police said they have not made any arrests but are still investigating Ball’s attack, which may result in arrests or citations for people involved in the July 27 incident.
“I think it’s a matter of time, but it doesn’t appear the time is going to be today,” DeSpain said.
Bielema said on the radio show that Ball is currently playing in a no-contact situation and is ready to get back on the field.
