CHAMPAIGN — Taking a quick glance at Bobby Baker generates plenty of questions about the Illinois senior gymnast.
What's up with the bevy of tattoos on his right arm, which include a wolf, a compass and an anchor? Most relate to "lessons I've learned throughout life and college."
Why is his right ankle covered in obvious purple bruising? It's the result of a "dumb" accident during a pre-meet preparation session.
How is he able to smile so much, given such life events as his mother dying of breast cancer in 2001 and his body suffering a rash of gymnastics-related injuries?