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The Portland Trail Blazers on Tuesday signed center Theo Ratliff to a five-year contract extension.

The 6-10, long-armed Ratliff has led the league in blocked shots for two seasons in a row.

Last season Ratliff played 53 games with the Atlanta Hawks, averaging 8.3 points, 7.2 rebounds and 3.1 blocks per game. He was traded during the season to Portland, where in 32 games he averaged 7.3 points, 7.3 rebounds and 4.4 blocks.

In his nine-year NBA career Ratliff has averaged 8.7 points, 6.4 rebounds and 2.8 blocks per game, on 49.7% shooting from the field.

Ratliff was drafted into the NBA in 1995. He was taken by the Detroit Pistons in the first round, with the 18th overall pick. During his career, Ratliff has played for the Pistons, 76ers, Hawks and then the Blazers.

Portland needs Ratliff's defense. Zach Randolph is the offensive star for the Blazers, but his defense is not nearly as developed. Ratliff's defense and shot-blocking are essential.

``I'm very happy to be here. My family and I decided that this was a city we wanted to stay in. I think we have great talent on this team and we can go far. It's a great team and a great city,'' Ratliff said at a press conference.

``From the time he arrived in Portland, we identified with Theo's superior play on the floor and his lifestyle and character off the court as a member of the Portland community,'' said Blazers general manager John Nash.