Badger Bits: Alando Tucker hired as director of student-athlete engagement; Beau Allen catches beers at Super Bowl parade

Former Wisconsin Badgers returning to their alma mater is not an uncommon occurrence. Obviously, just look at Wisconsin’s football, basketball, and hockey coaching staffs.

On Thursday, Wisconsin announced former basketball great Alando Tucker was hired to become the new director for student-athlete engagement

According to UW Athletics’ press release, “Tucker will work with incoming student-athletes and their families to enhance how they acclimate to life at UW and in the community, in addition to learning about and using UW resources available throughout their collegiate careers.”

Tucker’s mark on the court cannot be understated, claiming the school’s third consensus first-team All-American and the title of’s all-time leading scorer (2,217 points) during his time in Madison from 2002-07. The beloved Badger also was named a two-time, first-team all-conference selection and also claimed Big Ten Player of the Year honors in 2007.

The former Badger great, after graduating in 2007 with a degree in life science communications, played three years in the NBA and seven years internationally.

“I’m extremely excited about this opportunity,” Tucker said in a statement released by the Wisconsin athletic department. “I always wanted to come back to the university in some capacity. I thought this would be a perfect fit for me.”

Tucker also founded and has been the CEO of Arcitec Basketball.

“After 15 years of experience in intercollegiate and professional athletics as a student-athlete, professional athlete and founder and CEO of a student-centered nonprofit, Alando has provided opportunities of professional development to students, athletes, and parents in communities domestically and internationally,” Doug Tiedt, UW’s Senior Associate Athletic Director for Student Services, said in a statement released by the Wisconsin athletic department. “He will be a tremendous asset and resource to not only UW Athletics, but to the greater campus and community.”

Beau Allen catches beer gracefully Super Bowl parade

Also on Thursday, the Philadelphia Eagles celebrated their Super Bowl win in the City of Brotherly Love with a parade. Former Badgers Corey Clement—who also was on Jimmy Kimmel Live with fellow running back Jay Ajayi earlier this week—Chris Maragos and Beau Allen all earned rings for the NFL championship organization.

Allen tweeted a simple request during Thursday’s festivities.

And it appears fans did not disappoint:

Here’s a better angle of the last one:

Quite the festivities indeed.

One last signee for National Signing Day...a special one

Wisconsin released a must-watch video on Wednesday about six-year old Nolan, who according to UW “was born with a condition that damaged his bladder and kidneys.” He was able to “sign” a letter of intent with UW in a cool moment as he was greeted by his new teammates.