Until guilty, Bass Pro Shops chief supports Tony Stewart

One of Tony Stewart's closest friends is not just his fishing buddy, he's also founder and president of one of Stewart's primary sponsors on the No. 14 Chevrolet – namely, Johnny Morris, president and CEO of Bass Pro Shops. Morris' roots to Atlanta Motor Speedway run long. It's there that BPS sponsored several races over the years, including presenting one of the most unique trophies to race winners that the sports world has ever seen: typically a stuffed animal like a hulking grizzly bear. Because of those long roots to AMS and his friendship to Stewart, Morris took the unusual step of releasing a statement offering support to his long-time friend.

Here is Morris' full statement: "Today our thoughts are with our friend and fishing buddy Tony Stewart as he prepares to return to racing after what has been a difficult time in his life," Morris' statement began. "Our hearts go out to him and to the family and friends of Kevin Ward Jr., who died in the tragic sprint car event accident on August 9.

"I was able to spend time with Tony last week and it made my heart ache to see him so devastated by this incident. Like many other race fans, I love Tony's passion and still on the track and to watch this fierce competitor compete. But the off-track Tony Stewart is the man that I have come to respect. Time and time again, I've witnessed Tony's quiet generosity and compassion as he gives to others. By personally supporting numerous programs like Catch-A-Dream Foundation and Victory Junction, Tony has given many ailing children a chance to experience outdoor sports and have fun opportunities they might not otherwise have. His love of racing goes far beyond his work behind the wheel. It is common for Tony to sign autographs for each and every race fan for hours on end. Behind the scenes, Tony continually steps in to help junior drivers get started in racing because he cares about the sport and its fans. What started as a sponsorship discussion between Tony and I fifteen years ago has turned into a long and special friendship. It's a friendship that has given me the opportunity to get to know one of the most compassionate and kind-hearted individuals I have ever met. On behalf of the Bass Pro Family, and as Tony's friend, we are proud to stand by him as he returns this weekend to the sport he loves so much." NBC Sports