Joe Pavelski, the celebrated Wisconsin Badgers alumni, has claimed victory in the American Century Championship, a high-profile celebrity golf tournament. Scoring an impressive 73 points, Pavelski outpaced Hall of Famer John Smoltz by nine points. His round included 12 birdies and a critical eagle on the final hole, contributing to his total earnings of $150,000 from the event's purse of $750,000.

This triumph marks Pavelski's second win in a celebrity golf event this year, following his success at an LPGA celebrity division tournament earlier. Known for his outstanding hockey career, Pavelski retired last summer after an illustrious 18-season run in the NHL. His golf prowess seems to signal a strong second act for the former Badger who led Wisconsin to a national title in 2006.