The Bucks have exercised their third-year option for center Andrew Bogut, a housekeeping move that affirms the team's desire to keep Bogut around for a long time.

As part of the NBA's collective bargaining agreement, rookie contracts like the one Bogut signed last year are two years in length, with club options for a third and fourth year. Barring a catastrophe, the Bucks will exercise their option for the fourth year or sign Bogut to a long-term deal after the 2007-'08 season.

"We drafted Andrew last season with the expectation that he would be a part of this franchise for a very long time and this is just another step in that process," Bucks general manager Larry Harris said. "We look forward to building upon the success he had during his rookie season."

Bogut, the No. 1 overall draft pick last summer, averaged nearly 10 points and seven rebounds for the Bucks last season. He led all rookies in rebounds, blocks and field-goal percentage. Bogut will head to Japan in August to play for the Australian National Team in the FIBA World Championships.

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