Steve Smith, a former All-American for MSU, announced his retirement from the NBA on Friday at the Clara Bell Smith Student-Athlete Academic Center.

"It was just time," said Smith on retiring, despite the fact that he admitted part of him knew he could still play in the NBA.

"I thought I could play some more, but that's part of being an athlete. You always believe you can still play," Smith said. "It was time for me to come home and spend more time with my family. It's not a job that you can do forever."

Gathered to honor Smith were emcee Tom Izzo, former coach Jud Heathcote, MSU trustees David Porteous and Joel Ferguson, MSU President Lou Anna K. Simon, MSU Athletic Director Ron Mason, high school friend Vernon Richard, attorney Jack Davis, and his agent, Charles Tucker.

After a 14-year NBA career, in which he averaged 14.3 points per game, Smith said it was fitting that he announced his retirement here at MSU at the Clara Bell Smith Student-Athlete Academic Center, which is named for his mother.

"Her belief was you have to do for others, because others are what you are here for to do," Smith said.

"There were only two places I could have held this, Michigan State University or at Pershing High School," Smith said

This year's MSU basketball team was among those gathered in the crowd to honor one of the Spartans' all-time greats.

"I'm proud to have my players here to learn what a true professional is. There are a lot of things that are said, but one of those things is 'pro's pro,'" Izzo said. He explains further, "which is someone that handles themselves on the court and off the court, in everything that they take part in as a professional. I think the biggest compliment I can give you is that you're a pro's pro."

One of the overriding themes of the event was the family of Spartans basketball.

"I'm going to be there to support you," Smith told the audience, including this year's team. "We are all part of the Spartan family. That's why Michigan State University is special. All Spartans remember."

Heathcote pointed out the impressive fact that after experiencing a "tough year" as a freshman, Smith helped lead MSU to the National Invitation Tournament in his sophomore year. In the 17 years since, the Spartans have been involved in postseason play every year.

"I am proud to have been Steve Smith's coach, but I am more proud to be his friend," Heathcote said.

Smith listed winning a Big Ten Championship, signing his letter of intent to MSU, winning an Olympic gold medal, winning an NBA championship with fellow Spartan and Detroit Pershing graduate Kevin Willis as his fondest basketball memories.

Smith is second all-time for MSU in total points with 2,263, and ranks among the top five in six other statistical categories.

When asked what his future plans hold, Smith responded "car pooling."