The Bucks apparently believe T.J. Ford is completely recovered from a scary injury.

The Bucks on Friday exercised their fourth-year option on the guard, who suffered a spinal cord bruise late in his rookie 2003-04 season that caused him to miss all of last campaign.

Ford, who is to earn just over $2.3 million this season, will receive slightly less than $2.93 million for the 2006-07 season.

"T.J. is a dynamic player and a key to our success going forward," Bucks general manager Larry Harris said. "He has worked tirelessly to get himself back on the court and demonstrated in the preseason that he's ready to help lead our team."

The 22-year-old Ford, who underwent cervical spine surgery in May 2004 and was given clearance to resume playing just four months ago, has averaged 14.8 points and 5.8 assists in six preseason games.

"What I've seen from T.J. in games and practices during training camp is the only T.J. I know," first-year Bucks coach Terry Stotts said. "He has a terrific attitude and understanding of the game for being such a young player in the league. I'm excited to watch him continue to develop both on and off the floor."