The problem was that it couldn't connect to secure (WPA/ WPA2?) networks correct? Then this thread at Ubuntuforums.org might help you.

http://ubuntuforums.org/showthread.php?t=896713

I don't think Ubuntu installed the ndiswrapper for you. Mainly because it goes against the design idea of everything is open. Usually for drivers it goes like this..

Check if open source one is available. If not, use the closed source one provide by the company. If not then your wireless doesn't work.

So I'd say it's worth a shot. Wish I could help you more, but I'm unfamilar with Broadcom and I'm still a Linux newbie myself (even after using it for 2 years lol).