Badger Bits: Ben Brust to NASCAR?

Wisconsin guard Ben Brust won't be part of any basketball team tomorrow. Rather, he'll be spotting for Nationwide Series racecar driver Brendan Gaughan.

Here are Brust's thoughts on being part of the race at Road America in Elkhart Lake, Wis., per the Sporting News:

"The fact that it is a Nationwide Series race and a lot at stake is what makes it fun and interesting and it's going to bring a challenge," Brust said. "As an athlete and a competitor, I like the challenge of trying to be part of a team and helping a team be successful.

"I'm excited to do what I can to help. I'm sure I'll learn a lot. I'll just go to work when the green flag drops, and that's very weird to say."

Brust went on to acknowledge that his love for NASCAR hasn't spread to his teammates. I'm sure that being part of an actual race itself would be exhilarating, but watching it on TV is a complete bore. I'll passively acquiesce that a lot more goes into being a successful racecar team than meets the naked eye, but to be a real fan of the "sport" you've got to be fanatical. Brust is, I guess.

"I listen to scanners all the time," Brust said. "I understand what their job is-they've got to make sure that driver is clear, if he's got someone next to him or if he's on the quarter panel.

"I'm going to be as focused as I can be and do my best. That's all I can ask. I can't wait for Saturday. I'm ready to go."

If there is anybody who can operate productively in a pressure situation, it's Brust. That halfcourt heave against Michigan will live in infamy. Hopefully he can summon the goods for Gaughan during tomorrow's race, too.

LINKS:

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Here is the latest edition of Varsity Magazine. Melvin Gordon, Nic Kerdiles and Sam Dekker are profiled.

I thought Brian Bennett over at ESPN had a cool story on Wednesday. He asked Badgers fans which non-conference opponent they would most like to see on the schedule at some point down the road.

I can't really wrap my head around this whole Aaron Hernandez situation, and there is now a warrant out for his arrest. The guy has had problems with the law before, but this all smells like an O.J. Simpson-type of story with a lower-profile player.