The Memphis Grizzlies are set to honor one of their most iconic players, Tony Allen, by raising his No. 9 jersey to the rafters of FedExForum. The ceremony is scheduled to take place on March 15, following the Grizzlies' game against the Miami Heat.
Core Four Legacy Continues
With this upcoming honor, Allen will become the third member of the Grizzlies' celebrated "Core Four" to have his jersey retired. Zach Randolph’s No. 50 and Marc Gasol’s No. 33 jerseys have already taken their place in the rafters, symbolizing an era that defined Memphis basketball.
Allen joined the Grizzlies in 2010, after six seasons with the Boston Celtics where he made his mark as a tenacious defender and won an NBA Championship in 2008. Memphis acquired Allen on a three-year contract, and he quickly became an essential part of the team’s defensive identity.
An Immediate Impact
In his first season with Memphis, Allen transitioned from being a strong bench player to the Grizzlies’ starting guard, replacing O.J. Mayo. His defensive prowess was recognized right away as he earned All-Defensive honors during his inaugural season with the Grizzlies. This accolade marked the beginning of a career highlighted by defensive achievements, as Allen would go on to make the All-Defensive team six times, including three First Team selections.
Memphis Milestones
During his seven seasons with the Grizzlies, Allen cemented his place in the team's history. He is second in franchise history for steals, surpassed only by Mike Conley. Additionally, Allen ranks sixth in games played and ninth in offensive rebounds during his tenure with the team, statistics that underscore his all-around contribution and relentless work ethic.
Off-Court Challenges
Despite his celebrated career, Allen has faced legal challenges. In October 2021, he was charged for his involvement in a scheme to defraud the NBA’s health and welfare benefits plan. By April 2023, Allen pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit health care fraud and wire fraud, agreeing to repay most of the money. His sentencing in August 2023 resulted in community service and supervision, allowing him to avoid jail time.
Looking Forward
Reflecting on this upcoming honor, Allen expressed earlier that the jersey retirement was initially expected to occur during the 2024-25 season. However, as the Grizzlies aim to celebrate their storied history, the decision was made to honor Allen's contributions sooner. His jersey will forever be a reminder of the grit and grind era that made Memphis a formidable force in the NBA.
As fans look forward to the March 15 ceremony, Allen's legacy remains intact as a symbol of defensive tenacity and dedication. The jersey retirement will not only celebrate his achievements on the court but also stand as a testament to the impact he had on the Memphis Grizzlies and their fans.