The Pacers have extended the contract of center Jeff Foster, who would have become a free agent next summer.

"I?m very pleased that we?ve signed Jeff to an extension," said president Larry Bird. "Jeff is very important to this franchise. He?s a glue guy; and his hard work, both on and off the court, makes him a great representative of this team."

The extension is for an additional two years, which will keep Foster with the Pacers through the 2010-11 season.

"I?d like to thank the Pacers? organization for signing me," said Foster. "We?re in the midst of returning Pacers? basketball back to the stature of what our fans expect on and off the court. This is my 10th year and I have every intention of finishing my career here. I?m thankful to have been part of this organization and I?m excited to be able to continue to be part of the Pacers."