Lofton finishes second in 3-point contest; Pearl wins Rupp Award

It was a busy time in San Antonio for Tennessee men’s basketball Thursday, even though the Vols weren’t able to advance to the Final Four.

UT All-American Chris Lofton finished second in the 3-point shootout and coach Bruce Pearl was presented with the Adolph Rupp national coach of the year award.

Lofton’s run for the 3-point shootout championship round started with a 19-17 head-to-head win over Vanderbilt’s Shan Foster.

With the field cut to four, Lofton led second-round scorers with 18 to advance to the championship round where LaSalle’s Darnell Harris bested him, 16-11.

“I can’t say I’m happy with second, I wanted to win,’’ Lofton said. “But it was fun. This is a great environment, I just wish I could have been playing in a game.’’

Lofton’s parents, Frank and Kathy, were in attendance.

UT athletic director Mike Hamilton said he has been proud to have Lofton represent the Vols for four years and was pleased to hear Pearl was honored.

“Bruce’s honor was well-deserved,’’ Hamilton said. “A lot of coaches did a good job this year, but for us to have what could be considered our best season ever, with 31 wins, a No. 1 ranking and our first SEC outright title in 41 years, it’s gratifying to see Bruce win the award.’’

Meanwhile, Pearl will do pregame analysis for CBS on Saturday for the Final Four.

© 2008, Knoxville News Sentinel Co.
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