INDIANAPOLIS, Sept. 27 — Indiana Pacers center Rik Smits, a 1998 NBA All-Star, announced his retirement Wednesday.

"It was a hard decision," said the 7-4 Smits. "I've thought a lot about it over the summer and I feel it's time to retire. There isn't one particular thing that led to the decision, but just a number of factors. I want to thank the Pacers and Donnie Walsh for all that they have done for me over the years. I wish the Pacers the best of luck in the coming years. I will always be a fan."

Smits, who was drafted No. 2 in the 1988 NBA Draft, played his entire career (12 seasons) with the Pacers and averaged 14.8 points (shooting .507 from the floor) and 6.1 rebounds per game. His best season scoring came in 1995-96 when he averaged 18.5 points per game. Smits leaves the Pacers as their all-time leader in blocked shots with 1,111.

"It was a hard decision," said Smits, pictured with Donnie Walsh. (Ron Hoskins/NBAE Photos)

He also ranks second all-time in seasons (12), games (867), minutes (23,100), field goals made (5,301), field goals attempted (10,461) and defensive rebounds (3,746).

"It's hard to believe that 12 years have gone by," said Pacers President Donnie Walsh, who drafted Smits out of Marist College. "It seems like only yesterday that I was sitting with Rik and we were introducing him after the draft. Rik has had a great career in the NBA, has been an integral part of the success of our team and we are all sorry to see him retire.

"I've felt that he never got the respect that he deserved and have always felt he was a real anchor for our team. I appreciate his professionalism, his work ethic and the way he treated people. I would like him to know the door to the Pacers' locker room is always open. The Indiana Pacers wish Rik and his family all the best."