Tennessee is set to retire Chris Lofton’s No. 5 jersey on Saturday during halftime of the Volunteers’ game against Kentucky. Bruce Pearl, who coached Lofton’s final 3 seasons at UT (2005-08), reflected on their time together on Rocky Top.

“We had number 5 and the other team didn’t. He made all the difference in the world,” Pearl said.

On the court, Pearl remembers Lofton as one of the hardest workers and most disciplined players. Pearl recalled that after succeeding Buzz Peterson he was worried about losing Lofton in a transfer back to one of the powerhouse programs in his home state of Kentucky. Lofton stayed at Tennessee, and the rest is history. Lofton is the SEC’s all-time leader in 3-pointers, with 431 made during his career.

Lofton underwent cancer treatments between his junior and senior seasons in Knoxville. Pearl voiced admiration for Lofton outliving cancer and all the awareness and fundraising he has done.

After cancer treatments, Lofton played a senior season that earned him recognition as a 2008 Wooden All-America Team selection. He earned his UT degree in 2010.

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