Pacers' Jeff Foster retires after 13 seasons

INDIANAPOLIS (AP) - Pacers post player Jeff Foster retired Wednesday after 13 seasons in the NBA, all with Indiana, because of chronic back problems.

Foster played just 142 minutes in 11 games this season, averaging 2.3 points. A highly popular player for his on-court hustle, he ranks in the top 10 in franchise history in eight statistical categories. He was the last remaining member of the Pacers team that reached the NBA finals in 2000.

"I've given my all to the Pacers and the community the last 13 years," Foster said in a statement. "I had hoped to be able to finish the season, but unfortunately my back problems prevented that from occurring."

The 35-year-old Foster had career averages of 4.9 points and 6.9 rebounds.

Pacers President Larry Bird coached Foster on that finals team.

"He played hard every night, he always gave his all," Bird said in the statement. "He is a great role model for our younger players and we can't thank him enough for his contributions on and off the court."