Former Vols guard Lofton underwent cancer treatment

By BETH RUCKER
Associated Press Writer

Former Tennessee guard Chris Lofton underwent treatment for testicular cancer after a failed drug test revealed he potentially had a tumor.

Lofton revealed to ESPN.com that he underwent surgery in March 2007 and had four weeks of radiation starting in May.

Lofton was randomly picked during the 2007 NCAA tournament for a drug test that revealed he had high levels of a hormone that serves as an indicator of steroid use or cancer.

The Southeastern Conference´s 3-point record holder said in a statement released Thursday that it was a difficult time for him but he´s now cancer-free.

Coach Bruce Pearl said Lofton and his family had wanted to keep information about his cancer private throughout the season. Team officials declined to comment further about Lofton´s condition, citing HIPPA medical privacy laws.

Lofton was The Associated Press´ SEC player of the year as a junior and a second-team All-American. He was a preseason All-American going into his senior season.