Jeff Foster, the Pacers scrappy center, has been fighting back problems for years. He’s had numerous operations, including one surgery this season.
From Southwest Texas State University, Foster was drafted 21st by the Golden State Warriors in the 1999 draft. The Pacers immediately traded for him and he has been a Pacer for life.
Chronic back problems have kept Foster on the sidelines and he decided retirement was the right option. Below is the statement released by the team:
After 13 seasons in the NBA, all with the Indiana Pacers, forward/center Jeff Foster announced his retirement Wednesday due to chronic back problems.
“It’s with deep regret that I have to conclude my basketball career,” said Foster. “I’ve given my all to the Pacers and the community the last 13 years. I had hoped to be able to finish the season, but unfortunately my back problems prevented that from occurring. I want to thank the Simon family and the Pacers’ organization for 13 memorable years.”
Foster played in just 11 games this season, averaging 2.3 points per game. One of the more popular players in team history for his on-court hustle, he retires in the Pacers’ top 10 career list in 11 different categories in the team’s NBA history, eight different categories in franchise history.
The 35-year-old Foster had career averages of 4.9 points per game and 6.9 rebounds per game.
“Jeff has meant a lot to the team and the community for 13 seasons,” said Pacers President of Basketball Operations Larry Bird. “He played hard every night, he always gave his all. 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.”