The man who scored more points than anyone else in Thompson-Boling Arena returned on Saturday to a warm welcome.

Tennessee's "Throwback Week" theme was geared toward the 1970s, but Allan Houston, who scored 2,801 points in his UT career (1990-93) was a worthy exception.

He received a standing ovation from the crowd of 22,543 and later said he wants to be a part of helping UT basketball realize its potential.

"Being back on the court was a special feeling,'' Houston said. "I almost fought back a couple of tears.

"The last time I'd been in this building with a crowd was when I played.''

Houston retired last summer from the NBA's New York Knicks. He's feeling around to see what to do next.

"I want to be around the game of basketball,'' he said, "because I think God has blessed me with the opportunity to have some experiences to share with a lot of kids.''

Houston's scoring total ranks No. 2 all-time in the SEC and will be almost unapproachable at UT. However, sophomore Chris Lofton is taking aim on Houston's 3-point-shooting marks.

Houston and Lofton share the common background of being "Mr. Basketball" in the state of Kentucky.

"It's not ironic at all to me,'' said Houston with a chuckle. "It's only fitting.

"He's fun to watch. There are guys who you can teach shooting and there are guys who have a legitimate gift. He is gifted.''