New York Knicks guard Allan Houston, the fourth-leading scorer in the team, announced his retirement on Monday after battling with knee injuries for the past two seasons.

"My career as an NBA player and member of the New York Knicks must unfortunately come to an end," Houston told a news conference.

Chronic knee problems Limited the two-time All-Star to 70 games in the previous two seasons. He was determined to return to fitness and lead the Knicks this season. But the 34-year-old's arthritic knee continued to trouble him in training camp.

"Over the last two years I have done everything I could possibly do to get back on the court but injuries to my knee would not allow me to do it," Houston added.

Houston signed a six-year, $100 million deal in 2001. According to media reports, he will be paid the remaining $40 million left on his contract.

Houston was selected in the first round of the 1993 draft by the Detroit Pistons and averaged 17.3 points, 2.9 rebounds and 2.4 assists a game in his 12 NBA seasons.

Houston was also a member of the U.S. team which won gold at the 2000 Sydney Olympics.

Source: Xinhua