Indianapolis, IN -- (Sports Network) - Indiana Fever forward Charlotte Smith announced her retirement Thursday after playing eight seasons in the WNBA.

Smith, who finished her career with 1,412 points, is calling it quits playing so she can focus full-time on continuing her job as an assistant coach for the North Carolina women's basketball team.

"It was one of life's most difficult decisions, walking away from something you have known almost all your life," said Smith. "Not only is it difficult but it can present itself to be scary at times. I am blessed to have been part of the UNC women's basketball staff for five years so it makes the transition a lot easier."

Smith played 18 games with two starts for the Fever during her final season. During that season she was hampered by an injury and had to overcome the untimely passing of her father.

Smith's best season came in 2004 with the Charlotte Sting, when she posted career-highs of 8.2 points and 4.1 rebounds per game.