The Memphis Grizzlies have announced that Tony Allen's No. 9 jersey will be raised to the rafters of FedExForum this coming March. Known for his tenacity and relentless defense, Allen will join his fellow "Core Four" members Zach Randolph and Marc Gasol, whose numbers have already been immortalized by the franchise.
The jersey retirement ceremony is scheduled to take place on March 15, following the Grizzlies' game against the Miami Heat. This momentous occasion will acknowledge Allen's significant contributions during his seven seasons with the Grizzlies, where his defensive prowess became a cornerstone for the team.
A Storied NBA Career
Allen's NBA journey is one marked by resilience and achievement. His career spanned 14 seasons, beginning with the Boston Celtics, with whom he won an NBA Championship in 2008. In 2010, Memphis acquired Allen from Boston on a three-year contract. He quickly made an impact, taking over the starting role from O.J. Mayo in his first season.
That same season, Allen earned All-Defensive honors for the first time in his career—an accolade he would receive six times, including three First Team selections. Known as "The Grindfather," Allen's defensive capabilities became a hallmark of the Grizzlies' identity, embodying the grit and grind ethos that defined the team during his tenure.
During his time with the Grizzlies, Allen ranked second in franchise history in steals, trailing only Mike Conley. He also placed sixth in games played and ninth in offensive rebounds, underscoring his significant all-around contributions on the court.
A Legacy in Memphis
Allen's role in transforming the Grizzlies into a perennial playoff contender cannot be understated. Alongside Randolph and Gasol, he helped lead Memphis to seven consecutive playoff appearances, including a memorable run to the Western Conference Finals in 2013. The trio, later joined by Mike Conley, formed the "Core Four" that defined an era of competitive basketball in Memphis.
"It would happen during the 2024-25 season," Allen had previously noted regarding the jersey retirement. This honor marks a fitting tribute to a player whose hustle and heart left an indelible mark on the franchise.
Off-Court Challenges and Redemption
Despite his on-court achievements, Allen has faced personal 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 involved. Thankfully for the former star, he avoided jail time and was sentenced to community service and supervision by August 2023.
This blemish, however, does not overshadow the respect and admiration Allen continues to receive from the Memphis community. His contributions during his playing years remain a testament to his character and dedication to the sport.
Anticipation Builds for the Ceremony
As the Grizzlies and their fans prepare for the upcoming ceremony, the anticipation highlights Tony Allen's enduring impact on the team and the city of Memphis. The raising of his jersey will serve as a lasting reminder of the grit, determination, and defensive excellence that "The Grindfather" brought to the court.
With the date set and preparations underway, the celebration of Tony Allen's legacy promises to be a poignant moment for everyone associated with the Memphis Grizzlies. As one of the most beloved figures in the franchise's history, Allen's No. 9 will soon take its rightful place among the legends of the game, forever enshrined in the rafters of FedExForum.